Final Update - 1:20 p.m., Monday, February 2, 2026: Essential-Water-Use-Only Request LIFTED

Water Distribution System Demands and Pressure Have Stabilized

 Crews Continue Repairing Broken Water Mains Around the Clock with Support from Emergency Contractors

WSSC Water Appreciates the Cooperation, Partnership and Patience of Customers

Written by

Lyn Riggins

Laurel, Md. – February 2, 2026, 1:20 p.m. – Due in part to the public’s water-conservation efforts, WSSC Water has lifted the essential-water-use-only request as of 1:20 p.m. today for all 1.9 million customers in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

The water distribution system demand and pressure have stabilized, and water storage levels have returned to normal. WSSC Water’s Potomac and Patuxent Water Filtration Plants continue to produce water, meeting customer demand.

Why was this essential water use request made on January 27 at 11:15 a.m.?

A high number of water main breaks and leaks, which was predicted due to the extreme cold temperatures, increased the risk of pressure loss system wide.
Since the request was made on January 27, WSSC Water has experienced approximately 190 water main breaks/leaks.
While additional crews and contractors were mobilized, the essential-water-use-only request is made only when necessary. WSSC Water uses this water conservation tool after careful consideration and only if any portion of the water distribution system is at risk of losing water pressure, which can impact fire protection and possibly result in a boil water advisory (BWA).

Customers are urged to continue reporting suspected water main breaks and leaks by contacting WSSC Water:

Call 301-206-4002.
Email emergencycallcenter@wsscwater.com.
Use the WSSC Water Mobile App – Report a Problem.

Currently, WSSC Water is aware of 48 active breaks and leaks. Since January 1, crews have responded to 439 breaks and leaks and continue to work around the clock to make repairs and restore service. Drivers are urged to use extra caution when traveling in work zones.

Slow down when approaching and traveling through work zones.
Follow traffic control signs.
Use extra caution - travel lanes can unexpectedly shift, narrow, or suddenly end due to snow/ice.

WSSC Water appreciates the cooperation, partnership and patience of our customers. Their efforts to limit water use helped avoid a potential BWA and ensured adequate fire protection across Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

WSSC Water is the proud provider of safe, seamless and satisfying water services, making the essential possible every day for our neighbors in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. We work to deliver our best because it’s what our customers expect and deserve.