Parts of Arlington under boil water advisory after water main breaks

Gabby Allen
·2 min read

UPDATE, 6/7/24, 7:03 p.m. — Crews finished repairing the water main break and water was restored to all customers who were affected.

ARLINGTON COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) — Arlington County issued a Boil Water Advisory Friday morning after a 16-inch water main broke in South Arlington.

Customers in the following areas are under the advisory:

  • Alcova Heights

  • Arlington Heights

  • Arlington Mill

  • Arlington View

  • Barcroft

  • Claremont

  • Columbia Forest

  • Columbia Heights

  • Douglas Park

  • Forest Glen

  • Foxcroft Heights

  • Green Valley

  • Fairlington

  • Penrose

  • Shirlington

Emergency water main break causes delays for Arlington commuters

The break happened at around 6:30 a.m., shutting down Walter Reed Drive from S Four Mile Run Drive to S Randolph Street. Commuters experienced some traffic during the morning rush hour, and several schools were placed under a two-hour delay.

Many residents said they experienced depressurized water or no water at all.

Several Arlington Public Schools had to operate on a two-hour delay or close for the day due to the water main break.

Officials said the Boil Water Advisory is a safety measure due to the depressurization in the water system.

If you live in the area, you’re advised to bring your water to a rolling boil for one minute, then cool before:

  • Drinking

  • Making ice

  • Brushing teeth

  • Giving water to pets

  • Washing fruits and vegetables

  • Preparing baby food and formula

You can use your normal water for showering and washing clothes. Some discoloration in the water is normal, and you should run the cold tap water for a few minutes to clear the pipes.

Due to Virginia Department of Health requirements, the advisory will be in effect for a minimum of 48 hours. Click here for a map of impacted areas.

Crews expect to fix the water main by 4:45 p.m. Friday.

Anyone who has questions should call (703) 228-6555.

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