A Snowy Monaro Regional Council water reservoir has burst in Cooma North, releasing 4.5ML into nearby properties and streets.
An estimated 20 homes have been damaged with three suffering significant damage. One person suffered minor injuries and was conveyed to Cooma Hospital by paramedics, while another person self-admitted to hospital.
The site of the reservoir is being secured and once safe to access, investigations will commence into the cause of the burst.
Council workers and emergency service personnel are in the process of removing debris from a number of streets in Cooma North.
The reservoir had recently undergone structural checks and was deemed safe for use. The reservoir was filled in preparation for Saturday's extreme bush fire conditions.
Council was aware of a small leak in the reservoir and regular checks indicated the asset was structurally safe.
Cooma's water supply is secure.
"My thoughts are with the residents of Cooma North who have had their homes damaged. On a day where we prepared for unprecedented fire danger, this terrible incident is something no one expected, "Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Peter Beer said.
Impacted residents will be able to deposit their water damaged items at the Cooma Landfill, free of charge. Larger items can be collected by Council upon request.
