The Waterbury Times|Published Dec 13, 2025

Waterbury, CT – City Faces Widespread Water Crisis Following High-Pressure Water Main Failure

Waterbury-The City of Waterbury is currently in the midst of a major water emergency after the failure of a high-pressure water main caused a significant loss of water pressure and service across the city. Emergency teams are working around the clock to repair the system and restore water service. The city’s leadership, in collaboration with state and federal partners, is focused on ensuring residents have access to safe drinking water and critical services during this ongoing crisis.

Waterbury Faces Major Water Main Break, City Urges Residents to Conserve Water Amid Ongoing Repairs

City, State, and Federal Efforts to Stabilize the Water Supply

Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski, Jr., Governor Ned Lamont, and officials from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), and the Connecticut National Guard gathered today to provide an update on the city’s coordinated emergency response. The primary goal of these efforts is to stabilize Waterbury’s water supply, ensure public safety, and restore normal water service.

Boil Water Advisory Issued

Due to the complete loss of pressure in the city’s water system, a boil water advisory has been issued for all residents once service is restored. The advisory will remain in effect until water quality is tested and approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Residents should boil water for consumption, cooking, brushing teeth, and other uses where contamination might be a concern.

Urgent Alert: Waterbury Health Department Issues Critical Notice for Restaurants and Food Establishments Due to Water Main Failure

In addition, all restaurants and food establishments in Waterbury will remain closed until the water system has been fully tested and deemed safe for operation.

Waterbury Public Schools Closed

In light of the ongoing emergency, Waterbury Public Schools will remain closed on Monday. This closure is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff while emergency repairs continue.

Waterbury Public Schools Closed Monday, December 15 Due to Water Main Break

Drinking Water Distribution Efforts: Municipal Stadium & Crosby High School

To meet the immediate needs of residents, the City of Waterbury has initiated an extensive bottled water distribution program.

• Tonight, Bozzuto’s and Dasani-Coca Cola Northeast delivered a combined four truckloads of bottled water, which have been transported to Municipal Stadium at 1200 Watertown Avenue. City staff, volunteers, and the Connecticut National Guard are assisting with the distribution to ensure that residents can access water as quickly as possible.
• Additionally, ten more truckloads of bottled water are en route from Pennsylvania. Once these shipments arrive, the water will be distributed between Municipal Stadium and Crosby High School at 300 Pierpont Road to ensure widespread access across the city.

Statewide Collaboration to Meet Water Needs

In a continuing effort to meet demand, the City of Waterbury is sourcing all available bottled water from across Connecticut and New England. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains fully activated, with state officialsworking in coordination with city personnel to provide resources and support to the community.

Residents in need of bottled water or those seeking more information can call 311, where staff are available to assist with questions and provide updates.

THE REAL STORY BEHIND WATERBURY’S WATER MAIN BREAKS

Stay Informed: Ongoing Updates & Resources

The City of Waterbury is committed to keeping the public informed as the situation evolves. Updates will be provided as more resources arrive, and as efforts to restore the water system progress.

Key Points to Remember:

• Boil water advisory in effect once water service is restored.
• Restaurants must remain closed until further notice.
• Waterbury Public Schools closed on Monday.
• Bottled water distribution at Municipal Stadium (1200 Watertown Ave) and Crosby High School (300 Pierpont Rd).
• Additional bottled water shipments are en route, and the Emergency Operations Center is fully staffed.

For further assistance, please call 311 or visit the City of Waterbury’s official website for the latest updates on the water emergency.

Conclusion

The City of Waterbury is working tirelessly to address the water emergency and restore safe drinking water to residents. Efforts are underway to stabilize the situation, distribute bottled water, and repair the water main. In the meantime, the city is relying on its residents to follow safety guidelines and cooperate with ongoing efforts.

Stay informed, stay safe, and reach out for assistance when needed. The city will continue to provide updates and work towards a resolution as soon as possible.

The Waterbury Times