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Kirsti Marohn

Oakdale officials discover leak in pipe that likely led to I-694 closure

A crack in a 12-inch underground water main that burst in Oakdale.
The city of Oakdale released this photo Tuesday of the crack in a 12-inch underground water main that released more than 1 million gallons of water under Interstate 694 on Sunday.
Courtesy of the city of Oakdale

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A water main that broke last weekend and forced the closure of a portion of Interstate 694 appeared to have a slight leak before the break, Oakdale officials said Tuesday.

The 12-inch pipe broke early Sunday morning, spilling as much as 2 million gallons of water. It left a washout that could keep the interstate closed through the weekend. Thirty-five homes lost water service.

A new water main was being prepared for installation under I-694.
A new water main was being prepared for installation under I-694 in Oakdale.
Courtesy of the city of Oakdale

In a news release, Oakdale utility superintendent Shawn Nelson said the pipe's joints and casing seem to be in good condition. Nelson says it appears the pipe may have been leaking a little, possibly due to ground movement from changing weather conditions and road work.

Soil heaving due to changes in seasons have caused similar cracks, a release from the city said.

Although the pipe was more than 50 years old, officials say it was in good condition and age was not likely a factor.

The new pipe has been delivered. Utility officials anticipate water will be restored to all homes by the end of Tuesday.