East Grinstead water supply issues affect 16,500 homes

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Residents in East Grinstead, Sussex, are facing extended disruption to their water supply following issues stemming from recent severe weather. Approximately 16,500 properties are currently affected, according to a statement from Mr. Andrews.

Water Treatment and Burst Mains

Storm Goretti has impacted the ability to treat raw water at the main Sussex water treatment works, slowing the normal processing rate. This issue has been compounded by a series of burst water mains across Sussex caused by the current freeze/thaw cycle.

Did You Know? The current disruption affects an estimated 16,500 properties in the East Grinstead area.

As a result, drinking water storage levels in the East Grinstead area have been depleted. While all water currently in the network is confirmed safe to drink, officials regretfully state that normal water supplies are not expected to return before the end of the weekend.

Support for Vulnerable Residents

Bottled water deliveries are underway for individuals registered on South East Water’s priority register. This comes as residents in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, have been informed to anticipate continued water supply disruptions until Tuesday.

Expert Insight: The combination of storm-related treatment delays and infrastructure failures due to freeze/thaw cycles highlights the vulnerability of essential services to extreme weather events. Maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure is a critical, ongoing challenge for water providers.

Earlier this week, South East Water reported that the cold weather had already caused a “series of burst water mains,” impacting service for 6,500 customers in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many properties are affected?

Approximately 16,500 properties in the East Grinstead area are currently affected by the water supply issues.

Is the water safe to drink?

All water currently in the network is confirmed safe to drink.

When is service expected to return to normal?

Officials do not expect water supplies to return to normal until the end of the weekend. Residents in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, can expect continued disruption until Tuesday.

As the situation evolves, residents may want to consider how they will conserve water and prepare for potential further delays.

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