A water main break sent a torrent of water through a homeless encampment in Los Angeles’ Westlake neighborhood early Thursday, flooding tents and belongings and partially submerging parked cars.

The break was reported shortly before 4 a.m. near Third Street and North Occidental Boulevard, where several people appeared to be sleeping along the street when the water began rushing through the area.

Flooding is seen in Westlake after a main break swept through the streets. August 2026. (KNN)
Dramatic video from the scene showed water surging down the street before sunrise, surrounding tents, furniture and other belongings. One person could be seen carrying what appeared to be a mattress or cot through the rushing water.

Several parked vehicles were also caught in the flooding, with water rising well up their tires.

The flooding extended through the surrounding area, including near North Occidental Boulevard and Beverly Boulevard, and motorists were seen detouring around affected streets.

Flooding is seen in Westlake after a main break swept through the streets. August 2026. (KNN)
Some of the water had begun to recede by around 7 a.m., though significant flooding remained in portions of the neighborhood.

It was not immediately clear what caused the water main to break, how many customers were affected or how long repairs would take.

KTLA has reached out to the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power for additional information.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.