Distribution centers set up for water in Clay County

MANCHESTER, Ky. (WTVQ)- Emergency managers in Clay County say leaks, bursts and overuse have lead to a water emergency.

The City of Manchester is being used as a distribution point for water to residents.

Here’s the release from Clay County:

After the sub-zero temperatures of Thursday and Friday, it is apparent that several leaks have occurred within the Manchester Water Works distribution system.  These leaks are a result of customer pipes freezing and bursting, busted water meters, and breaks within our own distribution lines.  These leaks, along with high usage, have overwhelmed our system and are preventing us from maintaining adequate pressure in many areas and not providing enough water to pump stations that distribute water to several parts of the county.  We want to ensure our customers that the City of Manchester is working diligently to find and repair these leaks.  Those efforts are being hindered by the 8’-12’ of snow that has been on the ground since Monday and now by the flooding that is occurring throughout the county.  As long as the majority of valves and meters stay covered by snow or water the ability to locate and repair leaks and restore service will be slowed greatly.  This situation could become worse as more pipes that have been frozen continue to thaw and leak over the next few days.

Crews will be repairing leaks, starting closest to the water treatment plant and working outward into the county, in order to stabilize the entire system.  This means that outlying areas that are already without service may go several days before a consistent supply of water is available.  All areas service in Manchester Water may experience outages as the distribution system is being tested and leaks are isolated and repaired.  We ask that everyone conserves as much water as possible as we work to resolve the issue.  Please do not let faucets run unless the temperature is below 32 F and you believe it is absolutely necessary to prevent your water from freezing.  The City of Manchester will be working around the clock to restore water service to each and every customer.  Additional information will be made available later today.

Additional water will arrive tomorrow Monday Feb 23, 2015.  Points of distribution will be set up at local fire departments within the affected areas.  Please monitor local radio stations and the Clay County Emergency Management face book page for details.