JACKSON – Mayor Harvey Johnson said the city of Jackson is under a precautionary boil water order Thursday after a break in a 54-inch water line.
Johnson said he was notified about a drop in water pressure about midnight Wednesday. He says it took city crews a little time to find the break.
Johnson said local residents have also been asked to conserve water.
“We are uncertain of the specific nature of the failure. The water main is only about five years old. The contractor is helping the city crews,” he said.
Officials have estimated about 100,000 residents are affected.
Johnson said he expected water pressure to be restored later Thursday but health officials would have to test the water to allow its use for drinking and cooking.
Jackson State University canceled classes the remainder of the week. Gov. Haley Barbour gave the directors of state agencies authority to send home nonessential employees because of the break.
Several downtown businesses also closed.
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