KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – Repairs on Wednesday’s water main break in Keene have been completed but the city says the boil water notice will remain in effect for a few more days.

The break occurred around 7 p.m. Wednesday near 92 Water St, damaging a critical pipe that supplies much of Keene’s water system. The rupture drained a 3-million-gallon water storage tank and left many homes and businesses across the city and into North Swanzey with little to no water pressure well into the evening. Officials said the break was likely due to aging infrastructure, which poses ongoing challenges for municipal water systems.

In an update around 11:40 Thursday morning the city said that the water main break repairs are complete, and the system has been brought up to pressure.

A first round of water quality tests has been collected from around the city and will take 24 hours to complete. On top of that, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Safety requires a second round of samples to confirm water quality after the initial test, so the boil-water advisory will remain in effect until at least midday Saturday.

The notice is a precautionary measure that applies to all Keene and North Swanzey Water Precinct customers. The city emphasized that the advisory applies to any water used for drinking (including pets), cooking, brushing teeth, or washing dishes. Residents are advised to follow guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Area businesses are feeling the ramifications of the issue Thursday as some were able to open, some were not, and some closed early or had limited operations. Notably, the Savings Bank of Walpole had to close its Marlboro Street branch at 10:15 Thursday morning, but all other branches remain open.

Cheshire Medical Center went on full diversion for a brief time Wednesday evening due to the water supply issue but returned to normal operation by 11:30 p.m., while continuing to monitor the situation.

Some restaurants were able to open while others elected to close for the day. Anyone planning to visit a restaurant in the affected area should confirm that they are open before visiting.

As of the city’s update Thursday morning Water Street remains closed.