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PWSA Issues Flush and Boil Water Advisory After Water Main Break In Lawrenceville

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority has issued a Precautionary Flush and Boil Water Advisory for about 900 homes in Lawrenceville following a water main break Wednesday morning.

PWSA officials say because contaminants can enter the drinking water when there's a loss of water pressure, they are issuing the advisory as a precaution. They will continue testing to "confirm adequate disinfectant levels."

A water buffalo was placed in McCandless Park at 3 p.m. for anyone who needs it.

Traffic was still getting by, but slowly, Wednesday morning in upper Lawrenceville despite the water main break during rush hour.

Charles Mancerella wasn't aware of the break until he rode into it on his motorized scooter.

"There was more dirt and pebbles on top of the water, I couldn't go no more," said Mancerella.

PWSA crews helped him get out of the water. Their office began receiving calls around 6:30 a.m. from residents who had no or very low water pressure.

"At first, I was like, did I pay my water bill, and then I texted some friends, and they didn't have water either, so I just kinda waited it out," said Madeline Gent, a Lawrenceville resident.

The only other inconvenience, a little detour for Taco's morning walk.

"Trying to avoid splashes from the cars," she said.

Other residents say they hope the water is restored for businesses in the area, and for those who are getting ready for Thanksgiving.

"I got to take the turkey out, soak it in water, so it's hot for tomorrow, " Carl Austin, another resident, said.

KDKA's Lisa Washington Reports:

Water main break in Lawrenceville, at Butler St. and McCandless Ave.

Posted by Lisa Washington on Wednesday, November 27, 2019

PWSA completed the repairs at 8 a.m. on Thursday.

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