Some lanes of Ala Wai Boulevard between Namahana and Nui streets were closed Friday night as workers continue to repair a hydrant valve that broke this afternoon, sending a geyser over the busy street.

The break was reported about 1 p.m. and Honolulu Board of Water Supply crews worked throughout the afternoon to isolate the problem. Police closed Ala Wai Boulevard shortly after the break, causing a major traffic jam.
As of 7:45 p.m., two lanes of Ala Wai were open to traffic, the agency said. Crews anticipate restoring water service about midnight and expect to open all traffic lanes by Saturday morning.
Three high-rise buildings are without water service. Two water wagons have been placed in the area, one fronting the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel and one fronting the Royal Aloha Condominium.
It was originally reported that the probloem was a broken 16-inch water main, but the agency later said it was a blown 6-inch hydrant valve.