Laurel, Md. (January 13, 2025) – WSSC Water is urging all 1.9 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, including City of Laurel residents, to only use water for essential purposes effective immediately. At this time, water is safe and there is no need to boil before essential use. The urgent essential water use only request is being issued due to a significant increase in the number of water main breaks and leaks brought on by the frigid temperatures including break locations that have not yet been identified. Customers are urged to contact WSSC Water’s Emergency Services Center at (301) 206-4002 to report any running water or if they smell chlorine, which is used to disinfect drinking water. Reports can also be made via the WSSC Water Mobile App using the Report a Problem feature. Following the guidance below could avoid a Boil Water Advisory and help preserve water for system storage and fire protection as crews work to make repairs to breaks/leaks across a 1,000 square-mile service area. Until further notice, all customers are being urged to: - Use water only as necessary – i.e., take shorter showers and quickly turn off faucets immediately after use.
- Limit flushing toilets (do not flush after every use).
- Limit using washing machines and dishwashers.
WSSC Water has called in additional crews and emergency contractors to search for any unreported breaks/leaks and make repairs. To maintain system pressure, WSSC Water inspectors are shutting broken/leaking mains down before repair crews are dispatched to the break in an effort to keep system pressures stable. This may result in longer than usual times for repairs and customers may experience water outages or lower pressure for more extended periods. WSSC Water thanks customers for their patience. If customers suspect a water main break/leak (see running water or possibly smell chlorine), please call the Emergency Services Center at 301-206-4002, or use the WSSC Water Mobile App to report a problem. Check the WSSC Water website, X (@WSSCWaterNews) and Facebook for updates. | 