2LT International News

ATLANTA, Georgia: Water service in downtown and Midtown Atlanta faced significant disruptions over the weekend, following the bursting of corroded water pipes, causing numerous businesses and attractions to close and leaving many residents without water.

City officials gradually repressurized the water system by June 1, after the initial pipe bursts in the morning a day earlier. This affected the water supply to two hospitals, a city jail, a county jail, local shelters, and several high-rise residences, prompting the distribution of bottled water and the setup of portable toilets at fire stations.

“Water is a critical resource, and cities cannot function without it,” said Mayor Andre Dickens during a news conference. “It is absolutely at the top of our list.”

The burst water mains intersecting downtown led to significant water leakage onto the streets, compounded by a separate break in Midtown. The city faced criticism for delayed communication, with initial updates issued late on the day after the pipe bursts and subsequent information taking over 12 hours to reach residents.

Addressing the criticism, Mayor Dickens acknowledged the communication gap, saying, “Overnight, we did not do the best job of communicating. We could have done a better job over the past day, and for that, I apologize.” He committed to providing updates every two hours until the situation is resolved.

A boil-water order was issued for much of metro Atlanta, urging residents to limit water use to help rebuild system pressure. Al Wiggins Jr., Commissioner of the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management, emphasized the fragility of the water utility system and the need for careful restoration to avoid further setbacks.

The disruption led to the closures of various businesses and attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium. The aquarium reassured the public that while guest areas were affected, the animals were not impacted.

Due to the water issues, rapper Megan Thee Stallion had to move her concert from May 31 to June 2.

“I am extremely disappointed because I had a huge surprise for the Hotties tonight, but we will follow the Mayor’s protocol,” she posted on X. “Praying for the people who lost access to water due to this situation.”

As the city worked to resolve the water crisis, residents were urged to check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives. Mayor Dickens and the city administration assured the public that all efforts were being made to restore normalcy.