Kamloops drivers are being told to avoid heading north on 8th Street between Fortune Drive and the Halston Avenue this afternoon because of a water main break.

Utility Services Manager Greg Wightman tells NL News crews are already working to repair the break which was discovered after reports of a water leak near the intersection of 8th Street and Sherbrooke Avenue.

“It came in around 1 p.m. this afternoon,” he said. “There will be some traffic impacts and try and avoid that area if at all possible throughout the rest of the afternoon and early evening. The afternoon commute, if you are heading in that direction, you best try and avoid it.”

“We will be down to one lane heading northbound, so definitely some delays there. If you’re trying to get out anywhere, Westsyde, Brock, or anything like that, the Halston is definitely the better option than 8th right now.”

Wightman says its unclear what caused this water main break at this time, but he’s hoping to have the repairs done by 7 p.m. tonight.

#BREAKING #KAMMUTE UPDATE: Due to a water main break, the northbound curb lane on 8th Street is closed until further notice as crews work to repair the break. Please use Halston/Parkcrest as a detour route. Please expect delays and use caution in the area. #kamloops pic.twitter.com/5O8dOdkfrn

— City of Kamloops (@cityofkamloops) March 19, 2021