LOS ANGELES (July 17, 2026) – LADWP crews remain onsite at the location of a large water pipe rupture that was reported Thursday morning before 4:00 a.m. Overnight, workers made significant progress and finished draining the 0.7-mile-long section of the pipe, as well as the area surrounding the pipe break. Approximately 195,000 gallons of water were removed from the repair site to begin the complex work, including excavation, shoring for safety and beginning work to cut and remove a 25-foot section of damaged pipe.
Sunset Boulevard remains closed to traffic, with the closure area reduced to the section between Sherbourne Drive and San Vicente Boulevard along with nearby streets closed for public safety. There are also sidewalks that remain inaccessible due to damage, and some Metro bus routes have been relocated-see https://alerts.metro.net/ for details. The public is asked to avoid the area for their own safety and to abide by local officials’ guidance and direction.
Water to customers is currently being served through an 8-inch diameter backup water line while repairs take place on the damaged 36-inch diameter pipe. Customers from Sunset Boulevard and Larrabee Street westward to Olive Drive eastward are asked to conserve water when possible. Crews continue to make operational adjustments to balance pressure needs without risking additional damage. LADWP Claims staff are available today at 1010 Palm Ave. from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM to assist residents with property-related questions.
The ruptured pipeline, constructed in 1916, is part of the Sunset Trunk Line and has already been designated for replacement. Design work is underway, with construction expected to begin in 2031. The full project includes replacing nearly 10 miles of water pipe. While repairs to the damaged 25-foot section are being completed now, LADWP will continue moving forward with the long-term replacement plan.
LADWP’s leak rate remains 36% lower than the national average, with 16.1 leaks per 100 miles compared to 25 leaks per 100 miles nationwide. During 2024-2025, LADWP replaced 246,066 feet of water pipeline and is on track this year to replace another 246,047 feet.
LADWP’s Department Emergency Operations Center (DEOC) remains activated to ensure intradepartmental communication and collaboration with external organizations including Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, the City of West Hollywood and the County of Los Angeles, including Los Angeles County Fire.
For information, please visit www.LADWPnews.com or call 1-800-DIAL-DWP. For claims information, visit www.LADWP.com/Claims
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