Boil water advisory issued for city of Commerce after pipe damaged

COMMERCE, Ga. - The city of Commerce is under a boil water advisory for at least 24 hours after a major water main break Tuesday morning.

According to officials, a contractor damaged a large water service line for the city on Tuesday at around 11 a.m.

Crews worked late into the night to repair the damage, but after pressurizing the system, they discovered the damage was more extensive.

The entire water system is out of service while crews outside make repairs and replace the pipe. After the repairs are made, the system will need to be flushed and officials will do safety tests.

"We understand that this issue comes at a very bad time for our community and we are working diligently to get service restored as quickly as possible. We understand the gravity of the situation," City Manager James Wascher told FOX 5's Aungelique Proctor.

Ben and Mary Hill are seniors living in Commerce who were without water for more than 24 hours.

"It is very inconvenient when you can not take a bath or flush the commode and we are in the middle of this virus outbreak," Mary Hill complained.

For the time being, officials say you should bring water to a rolling boil and let it boil for one minute before cooling.

Please use boiled or bottled water for drinking, ice, washing dishing, brushing teeth, or any food preparation until the advisory is lifted.

The city issued the following statement on Thursday:

"The City of Commerce has completed repairs on the damaged water main. We are now pumping water back into the system. During this process you may experience pressure issues until all the air is out of the lines and the elevated water tanks are filled. Throughout the night, we will continue filling the lines and tanks. You may also notice fire hydrants that have water flowing from them. This is normal as we flush the lines and try to remove as much air as possible. Now that the water is being restored, please remember we are under a boil water mandate until further notice. You will need to bring water up to a roiling boil for at least one minute before consumption. As water is restored to your area, you may need to turn on several faucets throughout your home for a brief time to remove the air and any sediment from your pipes. Thank you for your patience in this matter."