Sewerage and Water Board crews were on site Sunday morning evaluating the damage and developing a repair timeline.
NEW ORLEANS — An emergency declaration was signed to speed up repairs after a major water main break in the 7800 block of Panola Street, according to Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Executive Director Randy Hayman.
In a video posted to social media, Hayman said the declaration allowed crews and contractors to be mobilized immediately following Saturday’s break. He said a 48-inch water main, about 100 years old, suffered two major breaks.
Sewerage and Water Board crews were on site Sunday morning evaluating the damage and developing a repair timeline, Hayman said.
Despite the damage, Hayman said residents on the affected block are not without water.
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A boil water advisory remains in effect. Hayman said water samples have been sent for testing and that officials expect to know by Monday whether the advisory can be lifted.
Hayman said the city’s aging cast-iron water system is brittle and especially vulnerable to cold weather. He apologized to residents impacted by the break and said additional updates would be provided as repairs continue.
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