Before dawn, icy water flooded a Southwest Detroit neighborhood after a massive water main burst. The city’s mayor revealed details about the cause and urged residents to call for help.

The 54-inch Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) main burst around 4 a.m. on February 17, sending freezing water through streets and into homes. Residents were trapped, and more than 75 people needed rescue as emergency crews rushed to help.

Aerial images from ABC News show the aftermath in Southwest Detroit. Snow-covered rooftops and parked cars are surrounded by thick ice, revealing how floodwaters spread and froze. Meanwhile, a resident shared a video of their lawn completely frozen over. Thick ice blankets the entire yard, reaching a trampoline and patio furniture.

The flooding drew strong reactions online as residents shared their concerns and frustrations. One user expressed disbelief, “This is crazy. Just crazy.”

Another highlighted the seriousness of the situation, “That’s terrifying! Over 75 people needing rescue is a huge ordeal.” Meanwhile, a resident directly impacted by the flooding shared their struggle, “It’s a mess here I can’t get out.” Someone else shared, “3 fts of black ice[sic].”

In response to the growing concerns, city officials provided updates on the situation. During a press briefing, Mayor Mike Duggan confirmed that the flooding impacted homes across several blocks, stretching from Lafayette to Waterman and Green to Beard streets. GLWA crews were notified shortly after the rupture and quickly arrived on-site.

One valve was shut off, Duggan added, and a second was nearly closed, leading to a gradual decrease in water levels. Emergency services focused on evacuating residents in danger, as freezing temperatures worsened conditions and made rescues more challenging.

He urged residents needing evacuation to call for help. “Our concern right now is for the safety of the people in this neighborhood…If you want to be removed from the house, dial 911. Fire rescue crews will be out immediately,” he said.