Water main break repaired in Benton Harbor

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The water main break in Benton Harbor has been repaired and crews are working to refill the system, the Office of the Mayor, City of Benton Harbor announced Wednesday afternoon.

Residents are asked to help by opening a cold water faucet in their bathtubs to allow air to escape.

According to the city, the water must be reintroduced slowly to reduce the risk of additional main breaks. This slow introduction also helps ensure sediments are not stirred up in pipes, protective coating on pipes is not disturbed, and other problems related to a fast, high-pressure water flow do not occur.  

Water may begin flowing to homes this evening and residents may then use it for flushing toilets or for other essential activities. 

Officials ask that flushing pipes, showering, and other high-volume usages wait until the system is fully pressurized. 

Residents are still encouraged to use bottled water for things like drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, rinsing foods, and mixing powdered formula. 

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