Businesses Evacuated After Burst Water Main Floods Newport Industrial Estate
A major water main burst in Newport has forced the evacuation of several businesses and left hundreds without water supply. Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue teams are battling to contain the flooding on Manners View Industrial Estate this afternoon.
Fire Crews Race to Stop Flood Waters
Two fire engines are on site pumping water into the River Medina to prevent further damage. The cause of the chaos is a damaged 400mm fresh water main that supplies homes in Ryde and surrounding areas.
Fire crews are reported pumping around 3,000 litres of water per minute as they strive to keep the flooding under control. Police have closed off the area and warned local businesses to move vehicles from the danger zone.
Hundreds Without Water, Businesses Struggle
Scores of homes on Bluebell Meadows Estate have been left without water, while Southern Water engineers work to restore pressure. The disruption could last a few hours as repairs continue.
Seven commercial properties suffered flooding, including JR Zone, where children had to be evacuated due to water flooding the ground floor. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
Southern Water Confirms Repairs and Thanks Emergency Services
A Southern Water spokesperson said: “We’re dealing with a burst water main on Manners View Road. Fire crews are helping pump out affected areas and the road remains closed.”
They added: “Repairs to the 450mm main were completed around midnight last night. We had to replace a 1.7-metre section of pipe. Approximately 300 homes were without water for around two hours during the repair.”
Southern Water also praised the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Island Roads, and the Environment Agency for their support in managing the incident and preventing wider flooding.
Ongoing Clean-Up Efforts
- Emergency teams remain on site to assist affected businesses and residents.
- Authorities urge locals to avoid the area and follow updates.
- Water supply is gradually being restored as repairs conclude.
