By Abdullahi Lukman
A major break in Benicia’s drinking water line, Solana county, California, US, has triggered a Stage 4 “Critical Water Shortage” emergency, with the city ordering all residents and businesses to cut water use by 40 percent immediately.
City officials announced the emergency Wednesday evening, urging the public to reduce consumption by shortening showers to under five minutes, running dishwashers and laundry only with full loads, and halting all non-essential outdoor water use, including car washing and pool filling.
The damage was located near Goodyear Road and Morrow Lane and is unrelated to a separate 2023 incident along I-680 and Gold Hill Road.
Public works crews are currently assessing the break and coordinating with contractors to restore the line. In the meantime, traffic is being detoured via Parish Road to allow for repair work.
Benicia will temporarily rely on its backup supply from Lake Herman.
While this water may have a natural taste or odor due to organic material, city officials assured it remains safe to drink and meets all state and federal standards.