While the water main break in Tidioute Borough has been repaired, residents in Tidioute and Limestone Township must continue to follow the boil water advisory until further notice, as testing is still underway.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the leak was caused by a loss of pressure in a main distribution line.

“SWWCMA has lost pressure due to a distribution line leak,” the DEP stated in a release.

Tidioute Borough Manager Amanda Mesel confirmed Monday that all leaks have been repaired but emphasized that the boil water notice remains in effect as required testing is conducted.

“Once water tests are completed and submitted to DEP, the notice will be lifted,” Mesel said. “We will notify the community as soon as the notice is removed.”

Until the advisory is lifted, residents are advised to boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, making ice, or food preparation. The use of bottled water is also recommended.

“We have had many residents take advantage of the water distribution services,” Mesel stated. “Water distribution will continue daily from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Tidioute Community Foundation Building until the advisory is lifted.” Additionally, a water buffalo is stationed at the same location for portable water access.

Officials warned that the water main break resulted in a loss of positive pressure, which could increase the risk of contamination entering the system.

“We experienced a loss of positive water pressure due to a main distribution line break,” officials said. “A loss of positive water pressure is a signal of the existence of conditions that could allow contamination to enter the distribution system through back-flow by back-pressure or back-siphonage. As a result, there is an increased chance that the water may contain disease-causing organisms.”

The borough confirmed that numerous line breaks were discovered throughout the community and have since been repaired.

Southwest Warren County Municipal Authority expressed gratitude to Pennsylvania American Water for their assistance in managing the emergency situation.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact the Tidioute Borough Office at 814-484-7424.