UPDATE: Water boil advisory still in effect, update released after main break in Fruitland

Officials have released an update to a water main break that happened in Fruitland, on Wednesday.

According to Fruitland Police, the water plant continues to pump and treat 850 gallons per minute into the water system as officials continue to make progress and regain complete system regeneration and pressure.

As required, police say that the water boil advisory is in effect until water test results are finished. Numerous samples have been submitted for testing, but the testing reportedly takes up to 18 hours.

Officials report that food service facilities that are on Fruitland City water and prepare food have been asked to close until the water testing is completed and results are within state parameters.

Maryland law requires all food service facilities to have potable hot and cold running water in order to operate.

Police should have an update by 7:30 a.m. on Friday, February 2. They thank everyone for their patience.

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Residents in Fruitland are slowly but surely getting their water back after a water main break left many in the town dry on Wednesday.

Officials say city workers were installing a street sign along S. Camden Avenue when they hit the water main instead.

Residents are urged to boil their water to cook or drink because the loss of water pressure increases the risk of contamination. The water however may be used for bathing or washing. 

The advisory is a precautionary measure and will be lifted as soon as testing confirms the absence of bacteria contamination

Officials say they are continuing to monitor the situation throughout the night and that schools in the area are expected to be open Thursday.