Evanston’s boil water order will remain in place until further notice, according to a Friday afternoon news release.
The city first announced the order for the northwest side of the city, including the entire 6th Ward and part of the 7th, after Skokie reported a water main break at East Prairie Road and Emerson Street Friday morning.
The morning release warned residents against drinking tap water without first boiling it. The order also applies to food preparation, hygiene and dishwashing.
“Community members should avoid non-essential tap water use,” the release said.
Friday afternoon, Skokie reported that it hopes water service will be restored for most residents by the evening, but the boil order will remain in place until testing is complete.
The Evanston Water Production Bureau is testing the water supply and reported that there has not yet been any sign of contamination in its system since the water main break, according to the afternoon news release.
According to a Skokie news release, the break occurred around 5:15 a.m. At an afternoon press conference, Skokie Public Works Director Max Slankard said crews were first alerted of the issue because of water on the street. He added that they have “made significant progress” to restore water service since the morning.
In the morning news release, the city said that Public Works crews are assisting Skokie to “resolve and repair the issue.” The release also reported several traffic disruptions in the area as crews work.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Audrey Pachuta contributed reporting.
Email: hannahwebster2027@u.northwestern.edu
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