Jersey City City-Wide Boil Water Remains In Effect
United Water officials have issued a boil water advisory to all Jersey City residents due to a main break on the aqueduct system that brings water into the City near the Belleville Turnpike. The break caused low water pressure throughout the City at about 11 p.m. yesterday evening.
The boil water advisory means that all Jersey City residents and businesses will have to boil their water for one minute for the following: drinking, cooking or baking, making ice cubes, taking medication, brushing teeth, washing food, mixing baby formula or food, mixing juices or drinks, feeding pets and all other consumption. Water does not have to be boiled for the following activities: showering, washing dishes or clothes.
United Water officials believe the main break occurred under the Hackensack River near the Belleville Turnpike at a point where water enters into Jersey City after its journey from the City's water treatment plant in Boonton, NJ. Emergency personnel are trying to pinpoint the location but must be wary of tidal flows in the river.
The company's emergency crews reacted swiftly last night to close valves and shut off water to the broken water main so that full system pressure could be restored by 2:00 a.m. The emergency workers then worked through the night to flush the system of discolored water so residents wake up to clear water.
The company's water quality specialists are taking water quality samples this morning to ensure the quality of the water. It typically takes between 24-48 hours to obtain results. They will be reported to the New Jersey State Department of Environmental Protection.
"We understand that this main break is a major inconvenience for residents of Jersey City," said Jim Glozzy, vice president and general manager for United Water. "Our first priority was to restore full service back to every customer and now we will focus on ensuring the quality of the water in the system."
For current information customers can visit www.unitedwater.com/uwjc or call 800-575-4433. Call volumes are currently very high so we do appreciate your patience and understanding.
United Water Jersey City provides water services to 240,000 people in the City of Jersey City.