‘Large’ water main break causes discolored water in several portions of Central Tacoma

Central Tacoma residents might be waking up on Tuesday to discover their water is discolored, which comes as a result of a large main break.

The break near the intersection of South Tacoma Way and South M Street has resulted in discolored water through large portions of Central Tacoma, Tacoma Public Utilities posted on X at 11:40 p.m. on Monday.

“Late evening on Monday, November 11, a contractor performing planned work caused a large water main break near the intersection of South Tacoma Way and South M Street. This has resulted in discolored water for a large portion of Tacoma, and a boil water notice for two customers very near the break,” according to TPU.

Anyone experiencing discolored water is asked to not use their water “for the next several hours,” the post said.

Crews are continuing to work on repairs of the main break, TPU said in an updated post at 7:35 a.m. on Tuesday.

“We recommend running your tap to see if the water is running clear. If not, stop running the water, wait an hour or two, and check again. Discoloration is not expected to have any quality concerns,” the post said.

Water quality concerns can be reported to TPU at 253-502-8207 or waterquality@cityoftacoma.org.

9:50 a.m. update: Work crews have repaired the main, and water quality samples are being taken, according to TPU on X. Crews are monitoring water quality throughout affected areas and flushing mains as needed.

The post reiterates that customers should run their tap to see if water is running clear. If it is not, they should stop running the water and try again in an hour or two.

Tacoma Water staff are working to identify the full area that has been impacted from the main break.