A significant water main break disrupted traffic near Del Amo Fashion Center on Sunday, temporarily shutting down every northbound lane of Crenshaw Boulevard between Carson Street and Plaza del Amo.

The break was reported before approximately 12:30 p.m. on August 2, just blocks from one of Torrance’s busiest shopping and commercial destinations. City officials urged motorists to avoid the area while emergency crews assessed the damage and worked around the affected pipe.

The closure created an immediate traffic problem because Crenshaw Boulevard is a major north-south route connecting Del Amo Fashion Center, Carson Street, Torrance Boulevard and surrounding neighborhoods. Drivers approaching the mall district had to use alternate streets while crews occupied the roadway.

The cause of the break was not initially announced. Water main failures can require excavation, pipe repairs, system testing and roadway restoration before lanes can safely reopen.

Torrance later reported that all northbound lanes near Carson Street had reopened following the water main break.

Although the emergency closure has ended, residents and businesses in the surrounding area should continue watching for temporary lane restrictions, pavement work or other follow-up activity connected with the repair.

The incident also underscores how a single infrastructure failure can quickly affect traffic, businesses and daily travel across a major section of the city.

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