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Repairs Continue On 36-Inch Water Main Break In N.W. Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — More than 24 hours later, a massive water main in Northwest Baltimore is still gushing, causing major problems for homeowners. The break even forced several schools to close for the day.

Rick Ritter has the latest from the Department of Public Works.

From high above, Sky Eye Chopper 13 hovers over a 36-inch main. On the ground -- a closer look at the massive break that's been gushing for more than 24 hours.

It first erupted Wednesday night along the 2700 block of Gwynns Falls Parkway.

"It's one of the larger mains that runs through the city, carrying water to other mains," said Jeff Raymond, Baltimore City Department of Public Works.

A nightmare for those nearby. Part of the parkway turned into a construction site, and three schools were forced to close both Thursday and Friday.

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"Trying to get transportation back and forth to the home has been a little of an inconvenience," said William Gibson.

DPW says they first need to let the pipe drain, which is hundreds of thousands of gallons of water, before they can install the new pipe and get the roadway back open.

Tyrone Carey works at Salon L up the street.

"They've been talking about it, the clients have been, so it's been a little chaotic around here," Carey said.

He fears for the worst if their shop is without water come Friday.

"Which is one of our busy days. We're busy all the time, but Friday, it will affect us in a major way," said Carey.

Something DPW isn't anticipating, but doesn't know how long repairs will take.

With temperatures below freezing overnight, officials are worried about potential icing, which is why salt trucks are around that area as well.

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