Residents of Tidioute Borough and Limestone Township who receive their water from the Southwest Warren County Municipal Authority are under a boil water advisory until further notice following a major water main break.

The break, which occurred on Wednesday led to a loss of water pressure throughout the system, raising concerns about potential contamination.

“SWWCMA has lost pressure due to a distribution line leak,” the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced in a statement. “We are currently trying to locate the leak and complete repairs. Bulk water will be hauled from another facility until the water line has been repaired. This boil water notice is in effect until the water line has been repaired. Once the repairs are complete and water quality testing is done the boil water notice will be lifted.”

The advisory will remain in effect until repairs are completed and water quality tests confirm the water is safe to drink.

A loss of positive water pressure can allow contaminants to enter the drinking water system, posing a potential health risk. According to the PA DEP, untreated water may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause nausea, diarrhea, cramps, and headaches.

Residents are advised not to drink tap water without boiling it first. Water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute and cooled before use in drinking, food preparation, brushing teeth, washing dishes, or making ice, according to the release.

“As a result, there is an increased chance that the water may contain disease-causing organisms” the DEP said in its statement. “Do not drink the water without boiling it first. Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses and parasites, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.”

The PA DEP also recommends using bottled water as an alternative.

Certain groups, including infants, young children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, may face a higher risk of illness from contaminated water. These individuals should consult their healthcare providers for additional guidance.

For general safety recommendations on drinking water, residents can contact the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. Authorities will notify the public once the boil water advisory is lifted.