Flooded Lowell streets, basements force some out of homes for 1-to-2 days
LOWELL – Dozens of people were evacuated after a massive water main break flooded the streets of downtown Lowell Monday night.
A pipe broke underground, sending water pouring out onto Moody and Cabot streets along with Father Morrissette Blvd.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) said two emergency shelters were opened to assist residents who were evacuated.
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team is operating a shelter at the Lowell Senior Center on Broadway Street. About 80 people are being helped there.
Another shelter is operating at the Mercier Center on Salem Street.
Among the buildings evacuated was a large housing complex. Many of the residents are elderly. Some need wheelchairs to get around, but elevators were without power.
"They're helping some of the disabled people get down, because they had to be carried down the stairs since the elevators are out," one man said.
Buses were brought to the neighborhood, waiting to take those residents to the senior center.
No injuries were reported. Residents may be able to return home in a day or two.
"It's a lot, it's a lot, I feel bad for everybody. It's not anybody's fault, things happen, waters burst. But it's a big inconvenience, that's for sure, " said Natasha Rosa, who was evacuated.
Residents are hoping this doesn't happen again as temperatures drop.
"This was a wakeup call maybe for the future," a man said.
