DETROIT - A massive water main break in southwest Detroit early Monday morning sent three to four feet of frigid water rushing into homes and streets, prompting emergency rescues across the neighborhood.

The 54-inch main, built in 1930, burst just before 2 a.m., affecting streets from Lafayette to Waterman.

Officials say it is the worst water main break the city has ever seen. The cause is under investigation.

"It was like water rushing into the house and basement," said Leonardo Adame, who was rescued from Army Street with his family. He said the water was freezing: "I didn't have no equipment on, so I rushed back into the house 'cause I couldn't handle it."

Firefighters, police, emergency responders, and dive teams from 11 different agencies were on scene most of Monday, Feb. 17, 2025.

"We got Lenawee County; we have response and dive teams that have come as far as an hour away," said Interim Police Chief Todd Bettison.

Rescue teams went door-to-door, carrying families and their pets on their shoulders, in boats, and inside front loaders.

"We're usually in bodies of water -- we didn't expect to do rescues in a neighborhood," said Dean Rademaker, Detroit police Harbormaster.

City officials, including the mayor, police chief, and the Great Lakes Water Authority, worked on-site and later updated the community.

The main was successfully shut off, and the water receded greatly. Later, the focus turned to putting displaced residents and their pets into temporary housing.

"If you don't have power, you don't have heat, we have a few blocks that don't have water, you do not have to stay in your home," said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. "We will get you into a good hotel room. The City of Detroit will provide you food. If you have a pet, it needs to evacuate with you. Sonesta is a pet-friendly hotel system. Your pet can come with you."

Duggan said those affected by the Southwest Detroit water main break can call 313-774-5261 for assistance with evacuations, repairs, and vehicle issues.

--> What Detroit officials will provide residents impacted by water main break

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) and the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) will cover 50% of repair costs for uninsured residents.

People needing shelter are being taken to Sonesta Extended Stay, where they can remain as long as necessary.

Ubers are available for those with damaged or stuck vehicles, and a pet shelter is available for those who cannot bring their animals to hotels.

"All of the dive teams that were there were part of the South East Michigan Dive Group," said Rademaker. "It's a way we're able to deploy a lot of assets quickly, and we couldn't have done it without all their help."

Starting Tuesday, city employees will go door-to-door to help residents file claims and initiate inspections to ensure homes are safe and livable.

Water has been restored to most homes, and efforts are now focused on restoring heat.

Towed vehicles will be taken to the 4th Precinct, and all fees will be waived.