MT HOPE, Ala. — Residents in portions of western Lauderdale and Lawrence Counties are dealing with a lack of water that will persist until at least the first portion of next week. West Lawrence Water Co-op and the West Lauderdale Water Authority put out messages to customers this weekend informing them of the issues.
"We are asking that you please limit the water you are using," West Lawrence told customers. "The amount of water in our tanks is falling and our guys are working hard to keep everyone with water. Please help us out!"
West Lauderdale Water Authority says crews have been forced to turn off water access in several areas. On Friday, supplies were cut at Hwy. 20 from the Natchez Trace to the Tennessee state line, and surrounding areas.
Crews also shut off water at several points in Waterloo and surrounding areas.
"Unfortunately, as of right now it is looking like Monday January 22nd at the earliest before we can have water back on to customers," WLWA said in their most recent update. "We are extremely sorry for the inconvenience but we are doing all we can do. We appreciate your patience and understanding."
Utility crews across North Alabama have been on guard for calls about water pipe ruptures caused by the below-freezing temperatures that have been in place. Decatur Middle School suffered no fewer than four ruptures between pipes and HVAC systems this week, causing an estimated $1 million in damage throughout the building.
If you think your pipes are beginning to freeze up, notify your utility company immediately.