Water palaver! Burst main causes massive jet

Tue Nov 3 2009 12:58:12

A ruptured water pipe in California's San Fernando Valley has sent a fountain of water towering over nearby buildings.

The city's Department of Water said an eight-inch connector pipe began leaking on Monday morning in Van Nuys.

The fitting was connected to a 54-inch pipe that was carrying purified, recycled water used for irrigation and industrial purposes.

The break sent water gushing in an immense column that towered over the roof of a nearby business.

Thousands of gallons went down the sewer before the water was shut off more than three hours later.

The DWP said there were no injuries or building damage and drinking water supplies were not affected.

"This water is not dangerous, it's recycled water, we just don't want anybody drinking it, but it is no danger to the public," said Steven Malinoksi, of the Los Angeles Department Of Water and Power.

© Independent Television News Limited 2009. All rights reserved.