DeKalb County is reporting a major water main break on Buford Highway today, March 7, that is resulting in water pressure loss and loss of water service, forcing local schools to shut down early and putting the affected area, including Brookhaven and Dunwoody, under a boil water advisory.
The break of a 48-inch transmission main pipe occurred early this morning near 5718 Buford Highway in Doraville. The break is causing water loss in Brookhaven and Dunwoody as well. Work is expected to begin soon to assess the damage and work to restore water pressure and flow, according to DeKalb officials.
Brookhaven City Hall is closing at 10 a.m. because of no water, according to city spokesperson Burke Brennan. The city’s Planning Commission meeting tonight is canceled.
The Brookhaven Police Department and recreation centers at Lynwood Park and Briarwood Park will remain open.
Dunwoody City Hall closed early also.
More updates can be found by clicking here.
An 11 a.m. briefing by DeKalb officials will take place at Doraville City Hall, 3725 Park Ave.
Due to the low water pressure and some water outages, campuses in the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) will release early today.
“A substantial number of DCSD families and campuses are without water service,” according to a press release from the school district.
Early release times are:
Elementary schools – 10 a.m.
High schools – 11:15 a.m.
Middle schools- 12:15 p.m.
DeKalb County is reporting there is no water at the DeKalb County Police Department Headquarters in Tucker.
The county’s fire department is working with other agencies to address low water pressure along Buford highway.
State resources are also being deployed to ensure public safety, according to DeKalb officials. Eight tankers are being brought into the county to supply water for fire protection and to fill chillers at hospitals. The state is on standby to assist as needed.
DeKalb County officials say the water plant is pumping at capacity, but the plant is experiencing low pressure, according to a press release.
“In an abundance of caution for our citizens and to protect the public from any potential health hazards, residents in the affected area are being asked to boil water for at least one minute after water comes to a rolling boil prior to drinking, cooking or preparing baby food,” according to a press release. “Residents are advised to conserve water.”
More information will be communicated as available. For more information, contact the DeKalb County Watershed Department at 770-270-6243.