Boil Water Advisory Remains in Effect for Southern Prince George’s County Following Major Water Main Break on Tuesday

Laurel, Md. – Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 8:10 a.m. – The Boil Water Advisory (BWA) remains in effect for customers in a large portion of southern Prince George’s County. 

Customers can click on this interactive map and type in their address to see if they live in the area under the BWA. Customers in the impacted area should continue to boil their water for consumption, but can use water for flushing toilets, washing hands, showering, and doing dishes/laundry. All stored water, drinks or ice made recently should be discarded.

Follow these guidelines if you are in the impacted area:

Bring water to a rolling boil for one minute then cool it before: 

• Drinking 
• Brushing teeth 
• Washing fruits and vegetables 
• Preparing baby food and formula 
• Making ice 
• Giving to pets 

The BWA is necessary following a 54-inch diameter water main break on Tuesday which caused a large portion of the WSSC Water system in southern Prince George’s County to lose water and pressure. When this occurs, there is an increased risk of contamination to the water distribution system. WSSC Water recommends if you live in the affected area, you should boil your water per the guidelines stated above. 

Water samples were collected yesterday, per Maryland Department of the Environment guidelines and testing is underway at WSSC Water’s laboratory in Silver Spring. An update on test results will be provided later today. More information about the status of the BWA will be provided at that time. 

Water Distribution Stations for Customers

WSSC Water will open water distribution stations later today to provide bottled water to customers affected by the BWA. Locations are being assessed now for accessibility and safety. Information will be shared as soon as possible.

 
Water Main Repair Update

Crews worked through the night at the site of the 54-inch diameter water main break in a wooded area off I-495 near MD 214. An access road and bridge were put into place to reach the location of the broken pipe. Next, excavation will occur. Crews will assess the damage to the pipe and determine how many pipe segments will need to be replaced. The lifting of the BWA is not tied to the completion of water main repairs. 

BWA FAQs

• Can I shower or wash my hands with the water without boiling?
  • Yes, you can shower or wash hands without boiling as long as you don’t consume the water.      
• Can I wash my clothes without boiling the water?
  • Yes.
• Can I wash my dishes without boiling the water?
  • Yes.
• Are there any issues with flushing toilets or related sanitation uses?
  • No, once water service is restored, customers can use the restroom as needed.

Check the WSSC Water website, X (@WSSCWaterNews) and Facebook for updates as this situation develops. For more information, please contact the WSSC Water Emergency Call Center at 301-206-4002.