Nearly 30 people had to be moved from their homes in Cork city early this morning when a burst water mains sent thousands of gallons of water flooding through the streets.
The mains burst on Old Youghal Road at about 2.30am, resulting in tens of thousands of gallons of water cascading down the Fever Hospital Steps near Murphy's Brewery.
Four units of Cork City Fire Brigade responded and moved residents from 14 homes in Shandon Court and Shandon View Cottages.
Houses in Shandon Court were flooded in some cases to a depth of 1.3m while over 30cm of water flooded some of the houses in Shandon View Terrace further down the hill.
None of the residents were injured but a member of a HSE ambulance crew which responded to the incident had to be taken to hospital after he was knocked over by the force of water.
Householders evacuated from their properties after the flood paid tribute to the emergency services for their swift response to the crisis.
For many local residents this was their second experience of major flooding with a similar incident occurring in the area 16 years ago.
Cliona Carroll, who lives in Shandon View Terrace, said fire officers displayed incredible efficiency even though they were working in difficult conditions.
"I couldn't praise the fire service higher. They came along and worked with industriousness and ingenuity to release the water pressure. They did all of this in the dark of night. They dealt with us warmly and they gave us their time."
Gerry Myers of Cork City Fire Service said the emergency services were met by a “horrific sight” when they arrived at the scene of the flooding
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Mick O’Connell surveyed the “horrendous damage”. He congratulated members of the emergency services for their quick response and added that every effort was being made to accommodate householders impacted by the flooding.