Residents of an apartment building in Mount Vernon are facing displacement after a burst pipe caused major flooding.

Tenants at 625 McQuesten Parkway told News 12 the pipe burst in a fifth-floor stairwell late Tuesday night, sending water rushing through the building. One resident described it as “a river of water,” leaving behind extensive damage, confusion and uncertainty about what comes next.

Several residents shared videos of the damage and said heat had been an ongoing issue in the hallway where the pipe burst. They said small space heaters were no match for the extreme cold, contributing to the pipe failure. Some residents have already left, while others remain inside the building to gather belongings and figure out housing options.

Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard said repairs will require significant work, including pulling up floors, meaning residents will need to find alternative housing for an extended period. City officials said they are working with the landlord to identify resources and speed up repairs as displaced residents search for stability during the dangerous cold snap.