A boil water advisory has been put in place for several communities in Prince George’s County, Maryland, following a significant water main break late Friday evening. The advisory, issued by WSSC Water, impacts approximately 11,200 customers across Cheverly, Seat Pleasant, and Capitol Heights.
Boil Water Advisory Issued: What Happened?
On Friday night, WSSC Water reported a 16-inch diameter water main break at 5540 Columbia Park in Hyattsville, near the Cheverly Metro station. Crews quickly stopped the water flow on-site, and, crucially, no residents are currently without water as a result of the incident. However, public health precautions have prompted the advisory, as the utility works on repairs and awaits water quality verification.
Officials have not provided an estimated timeline for completing repairs, emphasizing that safety testing must be finalized before the advisory is lifted.
Who Is Affected?
The advisory specifically covers:
- Residents and businesses in Cheverly
- Residents and businesses in Seat Pleasant
- Residents and businesses in Capitol Heights
To help residents determine if their area is included, WSSC Water has provided an online map for reference.
Safety Precautions: What Residents Need to Do
WSSC Water is urging all customers within the affected zones to take the following precautions before consuming tap water:
- Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, then allow it to cool before use.
Boiled (and cooled) water should be used for:
- Drinking
- Brushing teeth
- Washing fruits and vegetables
- Preparing baby food and formula
- Making ice
- Providing water to pets
These steps are necessary to ensure any harmful bacteria or contaminants introduced by the water main break are neutralized.
Support for the Community
To assist impacted residents, WSSC Water is opening a water distribution center at the Judith P. Hoyer Early Childhood Center in Cheverly. The center will reopen on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing an essential resource for those seeking access to safe water during the advisory.
What Happens Next?
WSSC Water will be conducting ongoing testing of water samples to ensure the supply is safe before lifting the advisory. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and refer to the utility’s resources for the latest information.
This remains a developing story, and local authorities are urging residents to stay informed as the situation progresses.
For continued updates, consult local news outlets and the WSSC Water website.