Boil order still in effect for parts of Lake County – NBC Chicago

A precautionary boil order remains in effect for residents of several Lake County communities after dramatic drops in water pressure over the July 4 weekend, and normal service may not resume until this week-end.

According to Lake County and Aqua Illinois officials, those orders remain in effect for some residents of Forest Lake, Hawthorn Woods and Kildeer. Residents of the Glennshire subdivision are also subject to the boil order.

In a statement, Aqua Illinois cited drought conditions, ruptures and leaks in water lines, and increased vacation demand made it difficult for the system to regain water pressure.

In an update Thursday, Aqua officials said they expect the boil order to remain in effect through the weekend, but are making progress toward restoring normal service.

The company says it “needs water supplies to continue to rise” before it can safely test whether new lines and major repairs have worked.

Water conservation measures are still in place, with the company asking customers not to water their lawns until further notice.

There are no signs of deteriorating water quality, but the boil order will remain in effect.

Systems for Aqua saw a drop in water pressure starting Sunday, officials said. A precautionary boil order was issued at this time and the search for the cause of the problems began.

Workers found leaks at commercial properties on Monday, but more leaks began to occur, which failed to allow the system to repressurize properly, according to Aqua.

Water use by customers on Tuesday exacerbated this situation and the system’s wells could not meet water demand.

Therefore, the boil order remains in effect. Officials say the water should be boiled for five minutes before using it. Bottled or boiled water can be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and preparing food.

Tap water can still be used for bathing or showering, as well as for household cleaning.

Bottled water is being made available to Aqua patrons at the Hawthorn Woods Aquatic Center this week.