SUEZ Reconnecting Hoboken To Jersey City Water Supply After Main Breaks, Say Discolored Water Possible

HOBOKEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Following a pair of water main breaks that flooded streets and left residents without running water, SUEZ Water crews on Sunday are opening newly installed valves that restore Hoboken's connection to the Jersey City water supply.

SUEZ Water had temporarily been receiving water through a transmission line coming from Weehawken while crews worked to repair a broken valve in Jersey City and another main break in southwest Hoboken near the Jersey City line.

"Our first priority was the restoration of service to all of the residents and businesses of Hoboken and Jersey City," said Christopher Riat, senior director of operations for SUEZ. "Now we can focus our attention on switching the interconnection from Weehawken to Jersey City and restoring the roadway."

The utility said customers may see some discolored water, which is caused by high levels of naturally occurring minerals in the water and a buildup of harmless sediments. Residents should wait until the water runs clear before drinking or washing clothes or dishes, SUEZ said.

The utility recommends that Hoboken residents experiencing discolored water:
• Run faucets for three to five minutes to flush the service connection and interior plumbing
• Empty and clean automatic ice makers and water chillers
• Drain and refill hot water heaters if the temperature is set below 113 degrees Fahrenheit
• Run water softener/cartridge filters through a regeneration cycle or other procedures recommended by the product manufacturer.

The company said it completed water quality testing on water coming from Jersey City on Saturday evening.