16-Inch Water Main Break Forces Evacuations In Abington

ABINGTON, Pa. (CBS) – A 16-inch water main break has forced evacuations in Abington Township on Monday.

It happened around 2 p.m. on Edge Hill Road.

Authorities say the main was isolated and shutdown on Edge Hill Road between Custer Avenue and Susquehanna Road around 4:20 p.m.

CBS3 has learned multiple homes in the area of the break had to evacuate their homes.

"Normally at this time my oldest son, my 4-year-old, is out back playing and this is the one time we're like no just stay inside cause it might rain," said Aaron Houston

About 85 homes were without water throughout Monday night. Water was restored to residents shortly after 7 a.m. Tuesday.

Aqua provided drinking water to those customers until repairs were over. Some neighbors decided to band together for a barbecue.

"Everyone is bringing something and we'll just weather the storm and get through it," said Donna Nick.

Officials say some residents in the area will be under a boil advisory. A boil advisory will be hand-delivered to customers. Those customers should boil their water until Aqua notifies them that the boil advisory has been lifted.

Aqua will collect water samples Tuesday and Wednesday. Results are expected back on Thursday.

The 16-inch main was installed in 1911 and was on list mains to be replaced in the next couple years.

Township officials say there doesn't appear to be structural damage to any homes, but at least six took water in their first floor or basement.

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• Water Main Break