Update: Boil Water Alert Remains in Effect; 24 Mile Road Closed

Two days after a 36-inch water main break on 24 Mile Road between Schoenherr and Jewell ruptured and dumped thousands of gallons of water onto the road, Shelby Township is still feeling the effects.

A boil water alert remains in effect for all of Shelby Township and the north east corner of Utica, which includes most of Northpointe Road, Target and Sam's Club.

As crews work to drain the water pipes and repair the roads, 24 Mile Road between Schoenherr and Jewel roads remains closed.

Since the 36-inch water main that broke Tuesday was one of six Detroit Water and Sewer Department's main feeds to Shelby Township, water pressure in the township has remained low.

"We had pressure losses, and that indicates a boil water alert as a precaution," said Shelby Township Department of Public Works Director Ted Schoenherr.

All residents have been asked to boil drinking water for a minimum of five minutes. For more tips on how to safely use water during a boil water alert, .

Schoenherr said the boil water alert will remain in effect until water samples, which are taken daily at noon, come back clear.

"Best case scenario would be Friday. We should know after testing Thursday," said Schoenherr.

The township has also asked residents to refrain from outdoor watering. There is no ordinance banning outdoor watering. However, Schoenherr said citizens are being asked to be mindful of the situation.

"Be a good citizen and don’t use the water on your lawn right now because we’re kind of in an emergency," he added.

When Will 24 Mile Reopen?

The Detroit Water and Sewage Department is responsible for all repairs to the broken water main and Detroit will be in charge of repairing the road.

Crews have been working around the clock to drain the pipes of any excess water, and find the source of the break.

From there, the pipes will be repaired and the road, which has been damaged by the gushing water and sediment, will be repaired.

"Since the water main is pretty close to the road, that will prohibit some road work for now," said Schoenherr.

There is no word on when 24 Mile Road between Schoenherr and Jewel will reopen.