Elma, NY (WBEN) A major water main break is currently affecting all residential and commercial properties within the Town of Elma.
Councilmember Jim Malczweski tells WBEN the main line coming in from Erie County to the Seneca Street and Jamison Road tank and pumping building broke." It's a 36 inch main line. So obviously, water has been shut off to the entire town, and the tanks are draining one by one," says Malczewski.
He says repairs are expected to take considerable time. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures by storing water in bathtubs and containers in anticipation of an extended disruption. "This is going to be a prolonged event. It's not going to be fixed in two or three hours," explains Malczewski."The fact that all of the tanks are going to be drained in town, that's going to kick in an automatic water boil."
Malczewski says he's concerned about water to fire hydrants in the event of a fire. "Without water, you don't have fire hydrants that are running either. God forbid that something happens and there's a fire. I know our emergency manager is in discussions at the moment with Homeland Security, trying to get guidance on tanker trucks, in case one of the four fire departments in town needs them," he adds.
The Town of Elma will be conducting a limited bottled water distribution this evening for Town of Elma residents impacted by today’s major water main break.
Distribution will take place from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the following locations:
Elma Volunteer Fire Company
3007 Bowen Road, Elma, NY
Jamison Road Volunteer Fire Company
1071 Jamison Road, Elma, NY
This distribution is limited and intended for Town of Elma residents only affected by the current water service disruption. Residents are asked to bring a photo ID or proof of Town of Elma residency in order to receive bottled water. Supplies are available while quantities last.
Employees of Moog have been sent home for the day.
The Erie County Water Authority has issued a boil water notice for various areas in the Towns of Orchard Park and Aurora served by the ECWA who are provided water service through the Elma water main. The areas impacted in the town of Orchard Park include: Willardshire and Stonybrook Roads from the Elma town line to 190 Stonybrook Road. The areas impacted in the town of Aurora include: The area between Bowen Road to the west, the Elma Town line to the north and the Village of East Aurora lines to the east and south. (See attached map). The area between Girdle Road to the west, the Elma Town line to the north, NYS Rt. 400 to east and the Village of East Aurora line to the south.
ECWA customers in these areas of Orchard Park and Aurora are advised to bring tap water to a rolling boil and let the water boil for one minute thereafter; allow for cooling before using. Boiled water should be used for consumption, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and preparing food. Bottled water also is an alternative to boiling water.
The water is expected to be restored by Wednesday.
