SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — A leak has been identified in a raw water transmission main, thus leading area utility companies to issue a voluntary water conservation advisory for customers in the tri-county region.
The leak was suspected Wednesday evening after Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority staff recorded water pressure and flow changes in the raw water transmission main from the Kings Bluff Pump Station. The station sources its water from the Cape Fear River and is the main source of raw water for CFPUA and LCFWASA utilities, serving New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.
LCFWASA followed the flow changes and identified the leak Friday afternoon. Crews have been called to evaluate and make emergency repairs.
CFPUA operates its own raw water transmission system, which is not affected, and with LCFWASA water, it is sufficient to meet customer demands, according to a press release from the utility company. As well, water storage in the CFPUA system is at or near capacity.
Brunswick County noted its main utility system is currently upstream of the leak and functioning normally. It’s not expected to cause major impacts to water service delivery or pressure for Brunswick customers at this time. There is enough water availability and no contamination that will require customers to boil water.
A voluntary (Stage 1) water conservation advisory encourages area customers to choose their water-use wisely, especially to help fulfill essential services (i.e. fire protection) as needed.
The weekend’s expected rainfall should prevent the need for irrigation. The utility companies ask customers to double check all automatic sprinkler systems, and ensure rain sensors work and/or the systems are paused.
Below voluntary actions are suggested:
- Use the following recommended irrigation schedule to even out system demands:
- Odd address numbers: Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday
- Even address numbers: Wednesday/Friday/Sunday
- No irrigation on Mondays
- Limit showers to five minutes — doing so can save up to 1,000 gallons per month
- Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and save up to 4 gallons per minute
- Only run washing machines or dishwashers when full
- Use a broom, rather than a hose, to clean driveways and patios
- Postpone washing vehicles at home or use a commercial car wash, which uses recycled water
- Dispose of tissues and sanitary products in the trash rather than flushing them–this also helps protect our sewer system
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