WSSC Water urges conservation for 1.9 million customers

WSSC Water has issued an urgent request for approximately 1.9 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties to conserve water following an electrical issue at the Potomac Water Filtration Plant. While the utility stated that drinking water remains safe and no boil water advisory is currently in effect, a warning has been issued that one could be implemented if operations are not restored quickly.

The Potomac plant, which typically produces between 100 million and 120 million gallons of water daily, supplies roughly 75% of the utility’s customers. Although Pepco has restored electrical service to the facility, an internal electrical problem is preventing systems from coming back online. The remaining operational facility, the Patuxent Water Filtration Plant, produces 90 million to 95 million gallons per day, which is insufficient to meet the average daily demand of 170 million gallons.

To maintain system storage and fire protection, WSSC Water is urging residents to use water only for essential purposes. Recommended conservation measures include taking shorter showers, turning off faucets immediately after use, avoiding outdoor irrigation, and limiting the use of washing machines, dishwashers, and toilet flushing.