Pittsburgh, PA - The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) experienced a major water main break at Centre and S. Negley Avenues that caused low and no water pressure for customers in the central and eastern sections of the City of Pittsburgh. The main break was isolated, and pressure was restored today. PWSA is issuing a precautionary boil water advisory to a limited area because a decrease in pressure can allow contaminants to enter the drinking water. PWSA is conducting testing to confirm adequate disinfectant levels and verify that the water is safe to consume.
A searchable map of the impacted areas is available here:
PWSA Boil Water Area. Any customer who experienced no water service today are also encouraged to follow these precautionary measures. PWSA estimates the precautionary flush and boil water advisory affects approximately 7,000 homes in the PWSA service area. Impacted areas include sections of:
- Bloomfield
- Central Lawrenceville
- East Liberty
- Friendship
- Garfield
- Highland Park
- Morningside
- Shadyside
The advisory applies to water used for consumption. Customers within the impacted area should do the following before using water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice:
Residents who do not know if their property has lead water pipes or solder, it is recommended to first flush your lines by running water from your tap for at least one minute before boiling.
1. Boil tap water vigorously for at least one minute prior to using it for drinking or cooking (the minute starts when the water begins to bubble). This includes water used for brushing teeth, making ice, washing raw foods, preparation of drinks, and water for pets.
2. Wait for the water to cool before using it, or store it in the refrigerator in a clean container.
Boiling kills harmful bacteria in the water that may cause illness. You should throw away ice made during the time the advisory or notice was issued, as freezing does not kill bacteria.
Flushing water brings in fresh water from the main and boiling fresh water kills any bacteria and other organisms that can enter the water. You can also use bottled water. A frequently asked questions document for boiling water can be found on the
www.pgh2o.com homepage.
Impacted customers will be notified by PWSA via automated robocalls. Customers in this service area are being advised to flush their taps and then boil their fresh water to ensure that drinking water meets or exceeds all state and federal water quality requirements. The boil water advisory will remain in place until further notice. Customers with questions can go to our website homepage at
www.pgh2o.com or call 412.255.2423.
