Late last night, a chilled water pipe at Duke University Hospital in Durham burst, leading to emergency department flooding and causing a diversion of ambulance patients. According to a report by WRAL News, the incident occurred around 11:40 p.m., which resulted in water spilling out onto the floor and out into Emergency Drive by around 2 a.m. today.
Hospital officials were quick to relocate emergency room patients to other parts of the facility. They however had to temporarily divert incoming ambulance traffic to Duke Regional, UNC Hospitals, and WakeMed. A statement obtained by CBS17 reassured that all patients in the emergency department received "appropriate care" at the time of the incident.
Duke University Hospital urged the public to seek emergency care at other area hospitals or urgent care centers if possible, according to statements. As crews worked to repair the affected areas, certain hospital functions were relocated, ensuring continued care. There was confirmation that inpatient hospital areas were not affected, as per a statement to The News & Observer.
Durham County Emergency Management was also on site, aiding the hospital's response. The hospital, situated on Erwin Road, swiftly commenced repairs in the flooded regions. Meanwhile, emergency patients arriving by their own means were to be attended to in alternative sites within the hospital.
