Toronto Water to excavate portion of Yonge Street after water main break

A portion of YongeStreet is expected to remain closed into the afternoon rush hour after a large watermain broke on Wednesday evening.

All southbound lanes ofYongeStreet are closed just south of King Street due to the flooding.

The heavy flow of water has caused damage to the road, the city confirmed.

The suspected break occurred in a large cast iron pipe first installed in the 1880s or 1890s, according to Toronto Water.

The city says it's not yet clear what type of fix will be required.

"At this point, we don't know what that repair is going to look like," said Bill Shea, Toronto Water'sdirector of distribution and collection

Shea said his crews are systematically examining the system. They will ultimately have to excavate the ground.

"We're going to have to tear up the road for sure," he said.

While water did enter the TTC's King station, Shea said drains kept any flooding from occurring on the platform or tracks.

The MelindaStreet and Commerce Court entrances are expected to remain closed during the repairs.