The Town of Conception Bay South has implemented a local state of emergency due to a water main break, leading to an imminent water shortage within the next two to three hours, as stated by Mayor Darrin Bent. The emergency declaration was made before 2:30 p.m. NT on Tuesday, with a directive for all businesses to close immediately to conserve water, citing concerns over the water supply at Bay Bulls Big Pond.
Residents have been placed under a mandatory water conservation order, restricting water usage to essential needs only. This marks the second instance of a state of emergency in the town within a short period. The water main break, identified around 12:30 p.m. between Three Arm Pond and Three Island Pond, is affecting the water supply for approximately 30,000 residents in Conception Bay South.
Efforts are underway to address the issue, with uncertainties regarding the duration of the problem and plans to provide access to water for residents. Leonard Hickey, owner of Hickey’s Greenhouses, expressed concerns about the impact on his business due to the sudden water shortage.
City officials mentioned that the problem is confined to Conception Bay South, and collaboration is ongoing to resolve the issue. Mayor Bent stressed the importance of water conservation to prolong the existing supply, acknowledging the challenges in predicting the timeline for repairs and system restoration.
Updates on the situation are expected, especially with schools reopening, and plans are in place to ensure emergency water availability and firefighting readiness in the affected areas. The town remains committed to keeping residents informed as the situation unfolds.
