Sinkhole in northeast Calgary results in water being cut off to some homes

Emergency crews have shut down a section of roadway in Huntington Hills in northeast Calgary because a large sinkhole has opened up, and water has been shut off to some nearby homes while crews work to fix the issue.

Northbound Fourth Street is down to one lane between Hunterhorn Gate and 72nd Avenue N.E. Southbound traffic is not affected.

The hole is approximately six metres by four metres, and no deeper than 2.5 metres.

Lee Dupras, leader of repair and maintenance for drinking water maintenance with the city, is suggesting people stay clear of the area.

Water main break

"The sinkhole was caused by a water main break. They're continuing to turn off valves in order to isolate the main break," said Dupras.

"It's a common issue with water main breaks. It causes silt and soil to be washed away."

Dupras said it's unknown what caused the water main break, but cold weather is a possible factor.

He said it may take a day or two to fix the issue and an unknown number people in the area may not have access to water in the meantime.

If anyone comes home to find they're without water, or spots another sinkhole, they should call 311.