Emergency responders had to rescue motorists after a water main break flooded streets on 14 Mile Road between Farmington and Drake roads early Saturday.
A boil water advisory has been issued for Walled Lake and a portion of Novi.
Social media posts showed large amounts of water flooding the area of 14 Mile at Muerdale and Verona, looking almost like a river or small stream with vehicles left in the water.
West Bloomfield police this morning warned motorists to avoid the area.
“The break involves a 48‑inch Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) transmission main and has caused flooding in the surrounding area,” the city of Farmington Hills said in a news release. “The Farmington Hills Fire Department responded immediately, rescuing individuals trapped in vehicles as floodwater rose. All known affected residents have been brought to safety.”
The water main break is on the Farmington Hills side of the roadway and it occurred at 4:30 a.m.
Crews from GLWA and the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office (WRC) are on site working to isolate the break, assess the situation, and control water flow,” the city said. “The city is coordinating closely with both agencies.”
The water authority also said Wixom, Commerce Township, West Bloomfield Township, and Farmington Hills may also be experiencing reduced water pressure.
“The city of Farmington Hills is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community members,” the city stated. “For ongoing updates, please monitor the city’s website for the latest updates at www.fhgov.com.”
The area is surrounded by neighborhoods, just north of Forest Elementary School.
This follows the GLWA having to repair a 36-inch water main break in Chesterfield Township in Macomb County.