Livonia Boil Water Advisory To Last Through Weekend

LIVONIA (WWJ) - Residents in Livonia could have a very long weekend ahead, thanks to a water main break impacting the entire city.

The city is currently under a boil water advisory and residents are being told they will have to boil their water until at least Monday as crews work to correct the problem.

Officials say the 48-inch water line won't be repaired until Saturday.  After repairs are complete, the city has to wait 48 hours before testing the water for bacteria. If those tests come back clean, the advisory will be lifted -- but until then, the city's 94,000 residents should use boiled or bottled water.

The advisory was issued Thursday after a large transmission water main along the eastbound I-96 service drive broke and sent water pouring onto the freeway. This problem also resulted in an issue at Schoolcraft and Stark Road, where a surge destroyed a pressure-reducing valve at that location. Additionally, three water main breaks occurred overnight Thursday, which crews have since repaired. Additional water main breaks have occurred Friday that have temporarily interrupted service on isolated streets.

Residents should bring all water to a boil for at least one minute and then let it cool before using. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and preparing food.

Whenever a water system loses pressure for any significant length of time, precautionary measures are recommended since a loss of pressure can lead to bacterial contamination in the water system. Boiling water before using it will kill bacteria and other organisms that may be in the water.

Residents will be advised when the boil water advisory has been lifted.

Residents in other cities near the Livonia border, like Westland and Redford, might notice a slight loss of pressure but do not have to boil their water.

Stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 and CBSDetroit.com for the latest.