Water was sent shooting into the air like a geyser from the 40-inch main, which broke on Pacific Street in Crown Heights around 4:40 a.m.
The residents were evacuated from two apartment buildings at 1526 Pacific Street and 180 Albany Avenue, both adjacent to the break.
RAW VIDEO:
Water main break creates geyser in Brooklyn
There were no reports of injuries, but it took more than three hours for workers to shut multiple valves feeding the mains to drop the water pressure.
The displaced residents were being aided by the Red Cross, and the MTA had two buses on the scene that were being used as temporary shelters.
All residents continued to have water service while the investigation and any necessary repairs were taking place.
Derick Waller reported from the scene:
There were reports of flooded basements and water damage to cars, and several vehicles also had their windows blown out by rocks that shot out when the main blew open.
Members of the FDNY and Department of Buildings were checking the foundations of the surrounding properties to make sure there was no structural damage.