DURHAM, NC – A significant water main break late Thursday night caused severe flooding at Duke University Hospital, forcing the closure of its emergency department and the diversion of ambulance traffic. The situation has disrupted hospital operations as recovery efforts continue through the weekend.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:40 p.m. when a 12-inch cold water pipe burst, sending water gushing through walls and ceilings on the hospital’s first floor. This led to substantial flooding near the emergency department and adjacent areas.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Duke University Hospital officials confirmed that the emergency department remains closed, with emergency patients being rerouted to other hospital areas for treatment. “Currently, emergency patients who come to the Emergency Department are being cared for in other areas throughout the hospital,” the statement said.
The burst pipe, part of the hospital’s heating and cooling system, did not carry potable water but was treated to prevent rust, debris, and microbial growth. As the water flowed through ceilings and walls, it picked up debris, compounding the cleanup effort.
Duke’s Infection Prevention team and hospital leadership are spearheading recovery efforts. “We are implementing water recovery plans in a manner that prioritizes safety and expediency,” hospital officials emphasized.
Community Impact and Resilience
The closure of the emergency department, a critical hub for healthcare in the Durham area, has highlighted the importance of coordinated responses during unforeseen infrastructure failures. Duke University Hospital, renowned for its healthcare excellence, is working diligently to restore full operations.
Local emergency services have adapted by redirecting ambulance traffic to nearby facilities, showcasing the resilience and cooperation of the broader healthcare network.
Stay Informed
As one of the region’s leading healthcare providers, Duke University Hospital’s commitment to ensuring patient safety and rapid recovery underscores its vital role in the community. For updates on the reopening of the emergency department and advice on accessing emergency care, visit Duke University Hospital’s website.
The Bill City Citizen will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
