A clogged sewer pipe in Clifton burst on Monday, flooding residents? homes with raw sewage, the Clifton Department of Public Works says.

Residents in the Lakeview section of Clifton, including Merselis and Nash avenues, say their basements are full of waste that is causing an unbearable stench in their homes and neighborhood.

The raw sewage flood was caused by a clogged sewer pipe that burst while workers were trying to fix it. Sewage rushed into homes through storm drains, toilets and bathtubs.

Residents say some of their belongings and basements have sustained irreparable damage. Clifton's city manager says residents should report damages to their individual insurance companies and if they're not covered, rejection letters should be forwarded to the city.

The Centers for Disease Control says exposure to raw sewage can cause serious health problems, including diarrhea and hepatitis.