Drivers on Delmore Road in Cleveland Heights got an unexpected waterfront view yesterday when a geyser of water blasted up through the pavement, shooting a tall column of water into the air and flooding part of the street. A short video that spread quickly on social media shows water forcing its way through cracked asphalt and spilling across both lanes. As of late yesterday evening, officials had not publicly confirmed the cause.
Video Shows Pavement Lifting And Street Flooding
The clip, posted by the Cleveland,Ohio Remembrance Page, captures a steady surge of water lifting parts of the roadway and sending muddy water down the street. The post describes the scene as consistent with a possible water-main break and urges drivers to steer clear of the area. Commenters point out standing water and torn-up pavement that could spell trouble for motorists and pedestrians navigating the block.
Cleveland Water Urges Residents To Use Emergency Line
According to Cleveland Water, customers should report suspected main breaks to its 24-hour emergency line at 216-664-3060. The utility says crews handle an average of five breaks a day. Its guidance explains that an investigator is dispatched to check road damage and figure out whether crews need to isolate sections of pipe. Cleveland Water also posts safety tips for reporting problems and for staying away from damaged pavement while repairs are underway.
City Guidance Flags Hidden Road Hazards
The City of Cleveland Heights utilities FAQ likewise directs residents to Cleveland Water for outside water emergencies and points people to the city's utilities division for sewer or pavement questions. City guidance warns that standing water and buckled pavement can hide sinkholes and advises people not to drive through flooded parts of the roadway. City spokespeople had not immediately confirmed any road closures as of late yesterday.
What Residents Can Expect After A Break
Cleveland Water notes that most main-break repairs take between four and eight hours to finish, and customers near the work should be ready for temporary service interruptions and possibly discolored water once service comes back. Officials typically advise that anyone who sees a visible break report it, give the exact location and describe how much water is flowing, and keep children and pets away from flooded or damaged areas until crews secure the scene.
