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Ruptured Water Main Closes Ventura Boulevard In Sherman Oaks

SHERMAN OAKS (CBSLA.com) — Crews Thursday worked to repair a water main break that flooded businesses in the San Fernando Valley.

Thousands of gallons gushed out of the ruptured 8-inch pipe at 14545 Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Firefighters used squeegees to remove water from four businesses that sustained minor water damage.

"Before we knew it, water was coming in through the windows and underneath the building. And now we have a pretty serious flood inside," according to Niki Foy, who owns Salon Beauty Bar. "Water's gone behind the shelves and it's going to cause a lot of damage."

Sandbags were placed to divert water from entering other nearby buildings.

"It kind of looked like a running river when it was at its peak," said William Wiebers of Valley Dog Bakery. "Went a brought a bunch of towels, had friends bring towels. And we were able to go ahead and try and hold the water off, as best we could."

Ventura Blvd. was closed for four blocks west of Van Nuys Boulevard, ending at Cedros Avenue.

A crew dug a hole around 4 p.m. so an inspector could go in and see if Ventura Blvd. was structurally sound. If it proves to be safe, they planned on opening one of the westbound lanes by 5 p.m. and the rest of the street by the end of the night.

Owners say the closure is hurting businesses who'd otherwise be frequented with customers.

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