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Public works repair water main in North Oak Bay

Repairs continue after a water main burst on Pelly Pl and Redwood Ave on Monday
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Oak Bay District public works crews patch up the ground after a water main burst at Redwood Ave. and Pelly Pl on Monday afternoon. On Tuesday, crews began re-paving the corner. (Octavian Lacatusu/Oak Bay News)

North Oak Bay area residents experienced low water pressure or no water at all Monday afternoon after a water main broke at Redwood Avenue and Pelly Place.

Six residents still remain without running water at this time.

Upon bursting, the main break caused a significant flow of water that was addressed in an emergency response by the public works department, which consisted of a valve shutdown to stop the flow of water, the District of Oak Bay wrote in a press release.

There was no damage to property or any homes in the affected area.

Heading into Tuesday, district staff from engineering services and public works investigated the extent of the damage to municipal underground infrastructure and are developing a repair plan.

The Oak Bay District did caution residents that they may notice a temporary discoloration in the water, which is considered normal after a water main break.

“The discolouration is caused by the sudden changes in flow and pressure in the water pipes, which disturbs the sediment in the pipes,” the district said, adding that though the water is still safe, it is unappealing.

As a result, the district recommended that if residents notice discoloured water, they should turn on a cold water tap and let the water run for two to three minutes. Residents should avoid using a hot tap water in order to prevent sediment being drawn into hot water tanks.

After two to three minutes, assess the colour of the water with a light or white-coloured cup or container.

If the water is not clear, wait 45 to 60 minutes and try again. If it is still not clear at that point, please call Oak Bay District Public Works at 250-598-4501.