Massive Texas water line break leaves 38,000+ customers without water

A large water pipeline break over the weekend has rattled a Texas community. Here's what to know about the water main break in El Paso that occurred around 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10.

Officials say the water line break was in Northeast El Paso. Residents documented significant flooding in the area. An estimated 38,000 customers in Northeast El Paso and parts of Central El Paso were impacted, EPWater reports. These residents experienced little to no water service, including McGregor Range.

According to a Sunday update by the utility service, the damaged line pours into several smaller distribution lines. Around 15 water reservoirs were drained as a result.

"We understand how disruptive this outage is and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience," said Gilbert Trejo, Vice President of Operations and Technical Services. "Restoring service and protecting public health are our top priorities. Our crews have been working around the clock and will continue 24/7 efforts until service is restored."

At the time, EPWater warned full restoration of water services may take up to 36 hours. Residents and businesses were urged to minimize water use and avoid all non-essential use. Full repairs to the water main could take several days.

On Sunday night, the El Paso Independent School District announced several schools would be closed on Monday, Jan. 12. The district will excuse absences for all students living in the impacted area.

EPWater has set up four water distribution sites. Customers can bring containers to Sue Young Park, Arlington Park and Sunrise Park. Bottled water is also being distributed at Chisolm Park, across from Clendenin Elementary School. Anyone aware of elderly or disabled individuals who need water delivery can call 915-594-5500.

EPWater also issued a boil water notice after the water main break, giving the following instructions:

• Boil all water used for drinking, cooking and ice-making.
• Bring water to a rolling boil for three minutes, then allow it to cool.
• Use bottled water as an alternative.
• Businesses should discontinue use of drinking and soda fountains connected to tap water.

The utility service has promised to test the water quality and notify customers when it's safe to use.