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May 24, 2023

Water main break in Stow caused by worker mistake

Following yesterday's water main break, Stow is still under a boil advisory, but

Following yesterday's water main break, Stow is still under a boil advisory, but it may be lifted by Friday.

A map of the affected area can be found on the city website.

Don Brooker, Deputy Director of Public Service with the City of Stow, said that yesterday's water main break at Fishcreek and Graham roads resulted from a miscalculation by a contractor working on the intersection.

The worker was boring a hole for an electrical line, and the bore head of the machine impacted the water main, causing the break, Brooker said.

Advisory still in effect:Stow issues boil advisory after water main break

The city was able to isolate the break and complete repairs by 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. Brooker said that the road repairs will be completed by 6:30 p.m. Thursday. In the meantime, there will be traffic delays, and motorists should avoid the area if possible.

In addition to their quick repair of the water main and the road, the city has received good news regarding the first set of bacteria testing conducted following the break. Brooker said that it came back clear, and they're now waiting on the second set of tests to return.

EPA regulations stipulate that two tests be conducted in the event of a water main break. Stow should have the results by early Friday afternoon at the latest, Brooker said, and the boil advisory will be lifted if they come back clean. An announcement will be made when it is safe to use city water without boiling it first.

For now, though, residents are still advised to boil their water according to CDC guidelines.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.

For more information, please contact the City of Stow Water Department at 330-689-2911.

Water used for drinking or cooking should be brought to a full boil for a minimum of 2 minutes and returned to the proper temperature before use. The water is safe for showering and laundry.

According to solefoodkitchen.com, these are five things you should do after a boil alert lifts.

Contact reporter Derek Kreider at [email protected]