ELMA, N.Y. (WKBW) — A major water main break in the Town of Elma resulted in boil water advisories for Elma and portions of the Towns of Orchard Park and Aurora.
Early Wednesday morning, the Town of Elma reported that crews worked overnight to repair the break and were able to begin the process of refilling the municipal water system.
"This restoration process takes time," the town said in a release. "More than 2 million gallons of water must be returned to storage tanks and distribution lines across the town."
The town said residents could expect system conditions to continue improving gradually and they can expect the following as water service returns:
- Air in water lines
- Cloudy or milky-colored water
- Low pressure or intermittent service
- Temporary discoloration
The town said if you experience air in your plumbing system, go to the highest point in your home or business and run cold water for approximately 10 minutes to help clear the lines.
In addition, the town said to support system stabilization, crews have opened several fire hydrants throughout the community to assist with restoring water flow and removing air from the system. You're asked not to disturb an open hydrant.
A boil water advisory remains in place for the Town of Elma, as well as portions of the Towns of Orchard Park and Aurora.
The areas impacted in the Town of Orchard Park include:
- Willardshire and Stonybrook Roads from the Elma town line to 190 Stonybrook Road.
The areas impacted in the town of Aurora include:
- The area between Bowen Road to the west, the Elma Town line to the north and the Village of East Aurora lines to the east and south. (See attached map).
- The area between Girdle Road to the west, the Elma Town line to the north, NYS Rt. 400 to east and the Village of East Aurora line to the south. (See attached map).
All side streets within the limits listed above are included in the notice.
Customers are advised to bring tap water to a rolling boil, let it boil for one minute and allow for cooling before using.
"Boiled water should be used for consumption, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and preparing food," officials said.
The town said officials are hopeful for full restoration later Wednesday, though restoration may extend into Thursday.
A final limited bottled water distribution for Town of Elma residents will take place at 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the Jamison Road Volunteer Fire Company. Residents must bring photo ID or proof of Town of Elma residency.
Residents should monitor the Town of Elma website and the Elma Emergency Manager Facebook page for the most current updates.
