'Essential water use only' alert issued for 3rd day in Maryland

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — WSSC Water has continued its directive to limit water use to essential purposes only for its 1.9 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.

The essential-water-use-only request was initially issued at 11:15 a.m. on Jan. 27. WSSC Water emphasizes that the water remains safe for essential use, and there is no need for a Boil Water Advisory at this time. However, conserving water is crucial to maintaining system storage and fire protection while crews work to repair the breaks across the 1,000-square-mile service area.

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This directive comes in response to a significant increase in water main breaks and leaks due to frigid temperatures. As of now, 41 breaks and leaks have been identified, with more expected as the cold persists.

Customers are advised to take shorter showers, limit toilet flushing, and reduce the use of washing machines and dishwashers. To prevent pipes from freezing, WSSC Water recommends leaving a faucet running at a trickle and opening cabinet doors to expose pipes to home warmth. Reporting any water surfacing or flowing down streets is also encouraged to help identify hidden breaks quickly.

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WSSC Water is actively monitoring water demand and production challenges at its filtration plants, as recent snowfall and winter conditions hinder crews’ ability to locate breaks visually. Additional maintenance crews and emergency contractors have been called in to address the situation.

In cases where water main breaks affect system pressure or pose safety risks, repairs are prioritized. Leaks, which are typically smaller, may not disrupt service and can often be left in place temporarily. To prevent icing, salt is being applied at active leak locations, and signs are posted where leaks have been reported.