A large water main break in Boston caused several businesses to be evacuated as crews worked to fix the flooding.
The Boston Water and Sewer Commission alerted residents shortly before 4:00 p.m. to steer clear of Jackson Square as workers tried to get the flooding under control.
BWSC investigating major water main break Columbus Ave near intersection Centre and Ritchie Sts Jackson Sq. Traffic impeded in all direction at intersection by flooding. BPD on scene rerouting traffic. Avoid area. Stay tuned for updates.
— BWSC (@BOSTON_WATER) March 17, 2026
Boston fire officials told Boston 25 News it was a difficult response because 3 separate daycares had to be evacuated and parents had to come and pick them up.
The water main that broke is 36 inches in diameter and moves water from one side of the city to the other but not to individual customers, Boston fire officials said.
Boston firefighters shared photos of Columbus Avenue completely coated in water.
“Things that sit in the ground for long periods of time don’t always work the way we want them to,” Boston Fire District chief Joseph Walsh said.
He called the response due to the water and the daycares “complicated.”
District Chief Walsh said they were making preparations for overnight work in the area.
He finished, “We expect the temperature to drop down low. So, we’re getting ready for icy conditions. We have DPW coming out. They’ll be on standby with sanders throughout the evening.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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