HAGERSTOWN, MD (February 2, 2019) – The Washington County Division of Environmental Management is informing residents of a water main break at South Church stream crossing.
Between the evening hours of February 1, 2019, and the morning hours of February 2, 2019, the Washington County Department of Water Quality experienced a catastrophic water main line break. The break, caused by extreme low temperatures, is located at the South Church stream crossing. Several crews from the department are on-site to locate the leak and make repairs. Water service to 586 customers in the Town of Sharpsburg has been interrupted. All appropriate agencies have been notified and are being mobilized. Fire protection to the town is being addressed by emergency services with personnel & equipment to the town.
The water plant, which draws its water source from the Potomac River, is producing water to replenish tanks. At full capacity the plant can produce 350 gallons per minute. Due to the plant intake on the river being frozen, the refresh rate has been compromised. However, crews are addressing the ice to restore the plant to maximum capacity.
Crews are continuing to identify and repair any additional leaks caused by extreme low temperatures. As repairs occur, water service will be restored to areas that can be brought back into service. Bottled water will be provided in the town at Sharpsburg EMS (101 1/2 Chapline St., Sharpsburg, MD 21782) today, Saturday, February 2, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Customers will be notified if any further action is required, including boiling water until plant operators can verify level of disinfection.
For additional information, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations and Marketing Department at 240-313-2380.
###
