About 860 homes in 2 Pittsburgh neighborhoods under boil water advisory

About 860 homes in two Pittsburgh neighborhoods are under a boil water advisory following a water main break reported early Wednesday morning.

According to The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, residents in parts of the Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar and Homewood North neighborhoods may be impacted. The advisory is for the areas approximately between Upland and East Chester streets, and Oberlin and Grotto streets.

The 8 inch water main break was reported on Apple Street Wednesday, causing low or no water pressure for some residents. It was isolated around 3:15 a.m. and repairs are in progress.

When there is a drop in pressure, contaminants can enter the water. Out of an abundance of caution, the authority issued a flush and boil water advisory.

According to Rebecca Zito, spokeswoman for the water and sewer authority, two consecutive rounds of testing need to be done before the advisory can be lifted. The first one was completed Wednesday and officials are waiting for results. A second will be performed Thursday.

The boil water advisory applies to water used for consumption. Those in affected areas should boil tap water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking, or before brushing teeth, making ice, washing raw foods, preparing foods or giving water to pets. Boiling kills harmful bacteria that may cause illness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tap water can still be used to wash hands, water plants and do laundry.

Residents who do not know if their property has lead pipes or solder should flush lines by running the tap for at least one minute before boiling.

A water buffalo is placed on a vacant lot adjacent to the fire station, 7024 Lemington Avenue. The CDC also recommends using bottled water.

Officials with the water and sewer authority are conducting testing to verify the water is safe to consume. Questions regarding the advisory can be directed to 412-255-2423.

To see if your home falls in the advisory area, a searchable map can be found at pgh2o.com/boilwater.