Crews uncover extensive underground damage after a major transmission main failure, as a boil water order remains in effect and full service could take days to restore.
The damage to a water main on Thomaston Avenue in Waterbury is “much worse than expected,” Mayor Paul Pernerewski said Sunday, after crews were finally able to get underground and assess the extent of the break.
Water service has been out for much of the city since Friday night, when a major transmission main failed. Officials said the pipe was washed out by an earlier water main break on the same road earlier in the week, contributing to the system failure and widespread loss of pressure.
What’s restored — and what could take days
The mayor said water service has been restored to parts of Waterbury, including downtown and the Bunker Hill section. However, he cautioned that it will likely be days before full service is restored citywide.
City crews are working on a plan to create a new section of main that would divert water and help stabilize service. Officials did not provide a firm timeline for how long that temporary rerouting could take.
Hospitals remain operational
Despite the disruption, the mayor said both Waterbury Hospital and Saint Mary’s Hospital are being fully supplied with water and are fully operational, helping ensure emergency and inpatient care continues without interruption.
Schools closed and decisions will be “day by day”
School is canceled on Monday in Waterbury, and the mayor said the city will take it day by day for the rest of the week. Wolcott schools are also closed Monday due to the ongoing water emergency affecting surrounding areas.
Boil water order: what it means
A boil water order has been issued for Waterbury and for parts of Watertown, Wolcott, and Prospect. The order will remain in effect until water is fully restored and testing determines it is safe to drink.
If you’re unsure what steps to take, follow official boil water guidance (including how long to boil and which uses require boiled or bottled water) from the CDC’s drinking water advisory resources.
Restaurants told to stop serving food in affected areas
Restaurants in Waterbury and the affected areas of nearby towns have been told not to prepare and serve food while the boil water order is in effect, reflecting the scale of the public health precautions underway.
Where to get potable water
Potable water distribution has been set up at Municipal Stadium and Crosby High School, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or until supplies run out). Distribution is expected to continue until water service is fully restored.
For the latest city updates, distribution changes, and official notices, residents can check the City of Waterbury’s official website.
“I’m really appreciative with what’s going on and giving out the water,” resident Katherine Aquino said.
