Los Lunas issues ‘no consumption of water’ alert in Huning Ranch - Valencia County News Bulletin

Los Lunas issues ‘no consumption of water’ alert in Huning Ranch - Valencia County News-Bulletin

UPDATE: In a press release issued by the Los Lunas Fire Department shortly after 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 11, Los Lunas Water and Sewer Superintendent Scott White advised that contractors are on scene working on a by-pass to re-establish water to affected areas. The water division will then flush the water system in the area. This will allow restoration of water to the area hopefully within the next 5 to 6 hours.

LOS LUNAS — The Village of Los Lunas Water Department has shut off water and issued a “no consumption of water alert” in the areas of Sundance St. SW to Pioneer Trail SW and surrounding areas due to an unexpected water break.

Area affected by Aug. 11 water line break in the village of Los Lunas

Los Lunas Water and Sewer Superintendent Scott White said the break is due to a technological communication failure that did not shut the well off. This led to an overflow that eroded ground underneath a water pipe which collapsed as a result.

“The water is shut down, but there’s still whatever is in the pipes that’s allowing some usage, but I don’t want people drinking it. There’s nothing wrong with it, some dirt did get in line, but it’s preventative care for protection of everybody,” said White.

While it’s not advised to consume, White said whatever water still remaining in the pipe can be used to flush toilets and wash hands.

White said about 200-250 residents are being affected. Additionally, Sundance Elementary had to shut down early, requiring families to pick up their students at the school and take them home due to the water break.

Those affected by the no water consumption alert can pick up bottled water at Los Lunas Fire Station #2, 465 Sand Sage Rd, from 2-8p.m., today, Friday, Aug. 11. There will be a five bottle per household member limit at this time to ensure equal distribution. There is also a filling station for potable water at Fire Station #2 on the south side of the building throughout the duration of this incident.

White said crews are currently out on the scene assessing the situation and working on a temporary bypass fix until they can get a new pipe.

“Pipe is scarce, so we’re trying to get that ordered and get it here. The temporary fix will happen by tonight and the complete repair will probably be done by Tuesday or Thursday of next week,” said White.

Felina Martinez was born and raised in Valencia County. She graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2021. During her time at UNM, she studied interdisciplinary film, digital media and journalism. She covers the village of Los Lunas, Los Lunas Schools, the School of Dreams Academy and the town of Peralta.