Widespread Disruption in Novi Due to Water Main Break

On September 25, 2025, a significant water main break occurred on 14 Mile Road, just west of M-5 in Novi, Michigan, at approximately 7:20 a.m. The break, which involved a 42-inch transmission main operated by the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), resulted in a substantial loss of water pressure affecting much of Novi and surrounding communities, including Walled Lake, Wixom, and Commerce Township. City officials reported that repairs could take several hours, and once service is restored, a boil water advisory will be in effect for at least 48 hours.

Novi under boil water advisory after water main breakWXYZ - Detroit NewsWUPA - CBS Atlanta

The water main break prompted immediate school closures across the affected areas. The Novi Community School District announced the cancellation of classes for all schools, stating, "We cannot run school without flushing toilets and running water for extended periods of time." Other institutions, including Detroit Catholic Central High School and several elementary schools in Walled Lake, also closed for the day. Local businesses, including the Henry Ford Medical Center – Columbus, were forced to adopt emergency measures, utilizing bottled water and closing facilities due to the lack of water service.

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City officials and the GLWA are actively working to isolate the break and restore service. Sheryl Walsh-Molloy, a spokesperson for Novi, emphasized the collaborative efforts between local public works and GLWA crews to address the situation. Residents are advised to limit non-essential water use and refrain from watering lawns until the advisory is lifted. The boil water advisory requires residents to boil water for at least one minute before consumption, as a precaution against potential bacterial contamination.

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Residents expressed frustration over the sudden disruption to daily life. Some reported waking up to find little to no water available, complicating morning routines. Steve Gabel, a Novi resident, noted the challenges posed by road closures and the lack of water service at his home. Community members are concerned about the impact on local businesses and the potential for extended service interruptions.

Novi Water Main Break Prompts School Closures and Boil Water Advisory, Repairs Underway on GLWA Line

While officials have stated that repairs are expected to take several hours, there is no definitive timeline for when water service will be fully restored. Additionally, the extent of the impact on water pressure in nearby municipalities remains unclear, with some reports indicating that residents in parts of Walled Lake and Commerce Township are also experiencing low water pressure or no water at all.

Novi under boil water advisory after water main break

• "We cannot run school without flushing toilets and running water for extended periods of time." — Novi Community School District

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• "Given the size of the main, this process is expected to take several hours before water service can be restored to those impacted." — City of Novi

Novi under boil water advisory after water main break

• "If everyone can be patient with the situation, we are working with them to address it." — Pete Fromm, Director of Water Transmission at Great Lakes Water Authority

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As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official city communications for updates on the water main repairs and the status of the boil water advisory.

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