The District of Elkford has advised that, during the rebuild of the currently failed water pump, they have found that additional repairs are required.
Based on the current estimate, completion of those repairs is now expected to take approximately four to five days, meaning water will not be restored today.
The exact timeline for the restoration of water is unknown, as it will depend on the completion of repairs, the safe reinstallation of the motor, and the return of the system to service.
A replacement pump had been under consideration; however, the quoted lead time is 4 to 12 weeks, making repairing the pump the more efficient solution in the immediate term.
District crews and staff are continuing to pursue every possible alternative solution that may help restore service sooner, provided it can be implemented safely and without risk to the system.
If water is restored sooner than anticipated, it will not be potable. It must not be used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth or any other consumption purpose.
The city says to assist with reservoir regeneration, it’s recommended that all properties in the affected area turn off the main water valve in their building.
CURRENT STATUS
- A BOIL WATER NOTICE remains in effect for the red-highlighted area and will remain in effect after water service is restored until the District advises otherwise.
- The blue-highlighted area may continue to experience low water pressure, but it is not under a BOIL WATER NOTICE. Areas not highlighted on the map are also not under a BOIL WATER NOTICE.
- District-wide restrictions on sprinklers and irrigation systems remain in effect.
- Hand-watering potted and container flowers or plants is permitted.
- All fire permits within the District of Elkford are rescinded until further notice.
DRINKING WATER
- Residents may drop by District of Elkford facilities downtown to refill water bottles at indoor fountains, as needed.
- Water refill stations remain available at the Community Conference Centre (750 Fording Drive) and Elk River Crossing Car Wash (6 Front Street). Water collected from these locations should be boiled before consumption.
NON-POTABLE WATER
- Non-potable water remains available through a Public Works water truck circulating within the affected area and at the tank truck in front of the Elkford Fire Hall. This water is not for drinking, even if boiled.
- Residents in the affected area may leave jugs at the curb for refill by Public Works.
SHOWERS
- Free public showers will continue to be available at the Elkford Aquatic Centre from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., including Sunday and Monday. The pool will not be open for use on those days, but the public showers will remain available.
ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT
- If you need help accessing water due to mobility or accessibility needs, please call 250.865.4025.
No further updates will be provided until Monday unless there is a significant development in the situation.
Residents can look to the District of Elkford website and Facebook page for official updates.
The map below shows affected areas.
Map of affected areas. (Image Credit: The District of Elkford)
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