Up to 200,000 to Lose Water for Days as Temperatures Soar

As tens of thousands of Prince George's County residents prepared to lose their water service for days -- and during a heatwave with temperatures approaching triple digits -- businesses around the National Harbor announced they are closing Wednesday and mandatory water restrictions were put in place across the region.

Taps are expected to go dry midday Wednesday.

Hotel disruptions are already being reported in advance of the water loss, and National Harbor officials are estimating a loss of $300,000 per day. The county has set up cooling centers, distribution points for water and shelters. Officials urged residents to fill bathtubs and stock up on drinkable water.

The water restrictions began Tuesday, with residents in the county forbidden from watering lawns and encouraged not to use their washing machines and dishwashers.

The move follows news by the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission that a portion of a 54-inch water main was in imminent danger of failing and needs to be repaired.

Scott Peterson, spokesman for County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, estimated 150,000 to 200,000 people could be without water.

The water shortage comes as the region is dealing with the summer's first major heat wave, with temperatures in the 90s and the heat index above 100.

Residents in Morningside, Hillcrest Heights, Camp Springs, Forest Heights, Temple Hills, and Oxon Hill will be affected by the repairs as well as Joint Base Andrews and at National Harbor. Summer camps and school programs have also been shut down. 

Area hotels report that rooms are still available for displaced residents in need of a cool place to stay. One hotel chain is offering an "H2O" discount. 

See:

• How to Prepare for Prince George's County Water Shortage
• National Harbor Businesses Close Down, Prepare for Water Shortage
• Rushern Baker: "Fill Up Your Tubs"
• Interactive Map of Affected Area

Officials said the faulty pipe is located inside the Beltway between Suitland Parkway and Forestville Road.

"Our monitoring system has recorded an increasing number of wire breaks in the pipe," an official WSSC press release stated. "That’s a signal that this type of pipe is beginning to fail."

WSSC officials asked residents to remain patient during the water shortage and help the process by conserving water. 

The Prince George's Fire Department offered tips for residents to stay safe and encouraged neighbors to check on the elderly and those with health conditions throughout the week. Officials also asked that residents call 311 for information and shortage-related issues and leave 911 open for emergencies. 

The Prince George's County Office of Emergency Management is opening its Emergency Operations Center to help monitor the situation and begin preparations for the water shortage, according to County Executive Rushern L. Baker III.

However, county pools in areas unaffected by the water shortage will remain open and residents can enter free of charge to beat the heat. 

Residents with questions can call WSSC at 301-206-4002. You can also follow WSSC on Facebook and Twitter.