What we know so far: Oakland County water main break, boil-water advisories and closures
ClickOnDetroit | WDIV Local 4 • • nation
Key Points:
- Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency and activated the State Emergency Operations Center following a major break in a 42-inch water transmission main in Auburn Hills, Oakland County.
- The break caused widespread water pressure loss and boil-water advisories across several communities including Auburn Hills, Pontiac, Rochester Hills, Orion Township, Lake Orion, and Oakland Township, with some areas facing potential complete water service loss.
- Residents and businesses in affected areas are urged to limit water use to essential needs, with some nonessential businesses ordered to close and water restrictions in place; a total burn ban is also enforced in some communities.
- Repair efforts involve isolating the break, excavating the site, replacing the damaged pipe, and disinfecting the system, with no firm restoration timeline but an expected minimum of 14 days without water.
- Water distribution sites have been established in Orion Township, Auburn Hills, and Lake Orion, and some roads and parks remain closed due to flooding and ongoing repairs.
