Detroit Flood Impact and Response
A major flood in southwest Detroit has caused severe damage. A 54-inch steel transmission line, built in the 1930s, ruptured Monday morning. The break led to widespread basement flooding. Many residents required rescues by raft. Emergency housing has been provided, and officials have promised to cover damages not handled by insurance.
More than 100 homes have been inspected through the flood. Of those, all had some level of basement flooding. As of Tuesday night, 133 households were staying in hotels. Officials set up a hotline (313-774-5261) for affected residents. The Detroit city is working to streamline the claims process. Forms will be available online in Spanish and English. Policyholders can include insurance deductibles in claims, and third-party adjusters will handle damage reimbursement.
Ongoing Repairs and Water Supply Issues
Crews are replacing the broken water line. A new pipe should arrive within 24 hours. Officials have scheduled repairs to begin next week. Full restoration may take at least two weeks.
A separate water line break has added to the crisis. Four houses remain without service. A boil water advisory is in effect for 50 homes for the next two days. Officials are distributing bottled water to affected residents.
Community Support and Recovery
Efforts are underway to remove ice left behind by floodwaters. Cars stuck in ice are being freed with salt. Local companies and civic associations have come up to help. Those in need have been provided with shelter and translation assistance by Cesar Chavez Academy.
Within six weeks, officials hope to bring every resident back in their homes. The city remains committed to a speedy recovery after the damage.
Source: Detroit Free Press
