The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority has issued a precautionary Boil Water Advisory affecting certain neighborhoods in Northwest D.C., impacting nearly 5,000 customers after experiencing a significant loss of water pressure. The advisory affects areas including Chevy Chase DC, Friendship Heights, Tenleytown, AU Park, Spring Valley, Cleveland Park, Woodley Park, Van Ness, Glover Park, Wesley Heights, and Cathedral Heights.
According to DC Water, the advisory is merely a precaution due to uncertainty regarding water quality following a power loss that occurred at a pump station on Thursday, resulting in pump failures and decreased system pressure. While power and water pressure have since been restored, testing is necessary to confirm the safety of the water for consumption.
Residents are advised to boil water before use for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and other household activities. Specifically, DC Water recommends that any beverages or ice made after June 12 at 2:27 p.m. be discarded. Residents should run their taps until the water is clear, then bring it to a rolling boil for one minute before cooling it in clean, covered containers.
The advisory will remain in effect until testing confirms that no bacteria are present, which DC Water anticipates could be as soon as late Friday, June 13. For those wishing to verify their status in the affected areas, additional information is available on DC Water’s website or through their 24-Hour Command Center hotline at (202) 612-3400.
This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining infrastructure and being prepared for utility disruptions. Residents are encouraged to stay updated and practice caution during this advisory period. Positive developments in the restoration of services and prompt communication from DC Water highlight the efforts being made to resolve the issue swiftly.