Water Main Break In Waterbury, Conn., Impacting Tens of Thousands of Residents

Emergency measures are being rolled out across Waterbury and nearby towns after a major water main failure disrupted service for a vast portion of the region. Officials say tens of thousands of residents have been affected by the incident.

City leaders confirmed that public schools in Waterbury will be closed on Monday, while restaurants were instructed to shut their doors tonight as a precaution. The closures come amid concerns about water safety and system stability.

“At this point, any facility that serves food and prepares food … even if they currently have water pressure, should not be serving food until such time as we can lift the boil water notice,” Waterbury Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski Jr. said.

A boil water advisory remains in effect for Waterbury as well as the neighboring communities of Wolcott and Watertown, as officials warn that the water system cannot yet be deemed safe for consumption.

The crisis began when a large water main ruptured along Thomaston Avenue on Wednesday. Conditions worsened Friday night, when officials said the entire water system lost pressure.

Governor Ned Lamont and municipal officials said during a Saturday press conference that repair crews have been working nonstop since the break occurred, operating around the clock in an effort to restore full service.

To address immediate needs, Pernerewski said the Connecticut National Guard will assist with distributing bottled water to residents once deliveries reach the city.

{Matzav.com}