A vehicle knocked over a fire hydrant, sending a massive geyser of water high above a Mission Valley condo complex Friday.
The hydrant was knocked over just after 11 a.m. in the parking lot of Mission Gate condos at 954 Camino de la Reina. The influx of water overwhelmed the drains in the parking lot, allowing the water to collect.
At least 16 units were impacted by water flooding their garages. Some say water backed into homes causing carpet and tile damage.
San Diego Fire-Rescue Capt. Geoff King said firefighters initially could not see the shut-off valve through all the water.
They had to find another hydrant to get a general idea where the valve was located. Then, they had to reach through the water to get to the valve that was about 2 feet underground.
San Diego City Water Department's spokesperson Arian Collins said the rush of water was turned off within 40 minutes of the call.
Collins did not know how much water was lost since it depends on the size of the pipe and water pressure at the time.
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The person or company responsible for hitting hydrant is liable for repairs and loss of water, Collins said.
The condo complex is located east of State Route 163 and north of Interstate 8.
Residents told NBC 7 it was a moving truck that backed into the hydrant and then drove away.
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