Streets and residences in Rotterdam's Noordplein neighbourhood were flooded on Saturday evening after a water main ruptured.

The water swept sand and paving slabs away and created a three by five metre pit in a road. The cause of the rupture is not yet known. Companies providing drinking water to the Noordplein neighbourhood have cut supplies due to fears that the drinking water may be contaminated.

Around 50 residences have been affected. It is not clear how long it will take to remedy the situation. Emergency service workers have pumped out basements and streets but it is not yet known when water supplies will be restored.