A catastrophic water main break in West Hollywood sent torrents of water surging through streets, causing a massive sinkhole that swallowed two pedestrians and swept a woman off her feet as residents watched in horror.

Sidewalk Suddenly Collapses Beneath Pedestrians

The dramatic incident unfolded along Palm Avenue near Sunset Boulevard when underground erosion caused by the ruptured water main created a large sinkhole. Two men walking on the sidewalk had no warning before the concrete beneath them gave way, plunging them into the opening. A witness capturing video of the flooding watched the terrifying moment unfold. The witness told KTLA that the men were simply walking near a tree when all the concrete suddenly collapsed beneath them. Video footage showed bystanders quickly gathering around the sinkhole immediately after the collapse, though the men appeared unharmed.

Woman Swept Away By Rushing Water

In a separate incident during the same emergency, the force of rushing floodwater temporarily swept a woman away as she attempted to reach the sidewalk. The West Hollywood Sheriff’s Office confirmed the major water main break occurred in the area of Sunset Boulevard and Holloway Drive. The break caused extensive property damage to local businesses and smashed vehicles together. Police responding to the scene said they remained uncertain about what caused the main break and were focused on traffic control while fielding numerous flood-related calls from panicked residents.

Extensive Damage Across West Hollywood

Video footage from the area captured heavy floodwater rushing down streets and surrounding parked cars. Eyewitnesses reported that first-floor apartments and underground garages sustained significant flooding. Multiple vehicles appeared trapped in the deluge. Los Angeles County Fire Department Captain Aaron Katon urged residents to avoid the Palm and Sunset area, warning that although crews had shut off the leaking water main, hidden underground damage could still pose serious risks. West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman confirmed all residents were accounted for and safe, though many remained in shock from the ordeal.

Recovery and Assessment Underway

Mayor Heilman described the flooding as significant, with city officials conducting door-to-door checks on buildings and residents. Many property owners discovered water damage to underground garages and significant vehicle damage. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power stated crews were working carefully to close large diameter underground valves, noting the highly pressurized system required slow, methodical valve closures to prevent additional damage. Authorities warned the full extent of underground erosion remained unknown, making the area potentially hazardous for pedestrians and drivers despite the water being shut off.