A construction crew in South Fort Myers accidentally ruptured a high-pressure water main while excavating, resulting in significant erosion, the formation of multiple sinkholes, and the closure of a busy highway for several days.

In South Fort Meyers, a construction crew excavating across the roadway hit a water main.

A large volume of water leaked from the damaged pipeline that was under high pressure, causing erosion of the road base and the formation of a large sink hole measuring 15 foot across and several feet deep.

Another sink hole, discovered nearby, was also attributed to the water flowing from the damaged line.

The report did not elaborate on the extent of the damage or if the utility was properly marked. 

The busy highway was shut down for several days due to the accident.

Cause: Excavation related damage 

Damage: Highway shut down

Injuries: None

Water pipelines, Flooding