Water main break in downtown Alton cuts water to some, floods State Street and Broadway — boil order issued

A woman exits River Bend Yoga Studio on State Street Monday evening to discover a torrent of water rushing down the street toward Broadway, as others inside watch from the storefront’s windows. A woman exits River Bend Yoga Studio on State Street Monday evening to discover a torrent of water rushing down the street toward Broadway, as others inside watch from the storefront’s windows. Photo: Nathan Woodside | The Telegraph Photo: Nathan Woodside | The Telegraph Image 1 of / 6 Caption Close Water main break in downtown Alton cuts water to some, floods State Street and Broadway — boil order issued 1 / 6 Back to Gallery

ALTON — A major water main break in downtown Alton Monday evening cut water service to area neighborhoods and forced street closures at State Street and Broadway and has caused a boil order to be issued for much of Alton and some surrounding neighborhoods.

The break was first reported after 6 p.m. Water service was restored to at least some of the effected areas by 7:30 p.m.

Crews responded to begin mitigating hazardous driving conditions the rush of water created at the Broadway intersection.

Illinois American Water issued a boil order for much of he Alton area, extending from the downtown area, as far north as the Woodlands Golf Club area and as far east as just west of Cottage Hills. A map can be viewed at http://arcg.is/0HHu1e.

In a press release, Illinois American Water said the break, on a 12-inch water main, caused a drop in water pressure, resulting in the boil water order. Anytime water pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch in any part of a community’s distribution system, a boil order must be issued as a precaution to protect customers. This boil order is being issued in accordance with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

Illinois American Water crews remained on scene at the water main break, which occurred in the 200 block of State Street in Alton, to make repairs. Motorists should avoid the area if at all possible and follow detours for their safety and that of those working in the area.

Customers in the affected area should bring their water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes before using for drinking or cooking.

Water is OK for bathing, washing and other common uses.

It is standard procedure for a boil water order to be in effect for 36-48 hours. Notification will be completed in the same manner when the boil water order is lifted.