Sewage spill in Laguna Beach

Northbound traffic on Coast Highway is backed up for miles at Diamond Street while crews work to repair a broken collar on a 24-inch sewer pipe that has spewed thousands of gallons of raw sewage into the streets and ocean.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Workers use biohazard suits within the immediate contamination area. Potential bacterial contamination from the sewage discharge prompted Orange County health officials to shut down a mile-long stretch of coastline in South Laguna Beach.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Between 6,000 and 7,000 gallons of sewage flowed into the ocean at Agate Street, Laguna Beach City Manager Ken Frank said. The rupture in the 24-inch pipe was contained about two hours later, with crews working overnight to make repairs.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Using small inflatable pools, workers are able to contain effluent after working in the area of the sewage spill.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Police have been rerouting drivers from the normally clogged thoroughfares of Cleo and Diamond streets, jamming cars on narrow side streets above Bluebird Park, city officials said.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)