September 28, 2025

Novi Faces Boil Water Advisory Following Major Water Main Break

Novi MI, September 28, 2025

News Summary

A significant water main break at the intersection of 14 Mile and M5 in Novi has led to a boil water advisory affecting residents in Novi and Walled Lake. Schools were temporarily closed, but will reopen with bottled water provided. City officials report that a bypass line has been installed, and full repairs are expected to take 10 to 15 days, raising concerns about the aging water infrastructure in the area.

Novi, Michigan experienced a significant water main break on Thursday morning at the intersection of 14 Mile and M5. This incident has triggered a boil water advisory for residents in both Novi and Walled Lake and led to the closure of schools in the affected areas.

City officials have advised residents to avoid outdoor water use while repairs are underway. The boil water advisory is expected to persist until at least Wednesday, as it is pending the regulations associated with state water quality testing. A temporary 24-inch bypass line has been installed to replace the broken 42-inch main that serves the community.

Flooding resulting from the break has limited access to various neighborhoods and caused disruptions on nearby roads. Although the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) managed to restore water service to all affected communities through emergency repairs during the night, a section of 14 Mile Road remains closed as repair work is ongoing.

Current Situation and Safety Guidelines

Novi schools are set to reopen on Friday; however, the boil water advisory remains in effect, and schools are providing bottled water for residents. All tap water for consumption must be boiled for at least one minute before use. Residents are also encouraged to use bottled water as a safer alternative.

Before the boil water advisory can be lifted, Novi city workers must thoroughly flush the water system. Water quality testing must produce safe results in two separate samples collected 24 hours apart.

Repair Timeline and Infrastructure Concerns

According to the GLWA, the estimated timeframe for full repair of the water main is approximately 10 to 15 days. While water pressure in the city has been restored, officials have cautioned that residents may experience fluctuations in water pressure and are advised to reserve water as a backup during this time.

The incident has raised concerns regarding the city’s aging infrastructure, as many of the water pipes in Novi date back to the 1970s. As the community manages the aftermath of the water main break and the ongoing boil water advisory, residents will need to remain vigilant and informed about water safety recommendations.

Summary of Events

A significant water main break occurred at 14 Mile and M5.
A boil water advisory has been issued for residents of Novi and Walled Lake.
Schools closed on Thursday and reopened on Friday, with bottled water available.
A temporary bypass line is in place while repairs are underway.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor water use.
Full repairs are expected to take 10 to 15 days.

Safety Recommendations

Boil tap water for at least one minute before consumption.
Use bottled water as an alternative for drinking and cooking.
Monitor local updates for information about the boil water advisory and testing results.

FAQ

What caused the water main break in Novi?
A significant water main break occurred at the intersection of 14 Mile and M5.

What is the boil water advisory?
The boil water advisory has been issued for residents in Novi and Walled Lake, requiring them to boil tap water for at least one minute before consumption.

When will the boil water advisory be lifted?
The boil water advisory is expected to last until at least Wednesday, pending state water quality testing regulations.

Why were schools closed?
Schools in the affected areas were closed on Thursday due to the water main break.

How long will repairs take?
The GLWA has an estimated timeframe of 10 to 15 days for the full repair of the water main.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature	Details
Location of Break	14 Mile and M5, Novi
Boil Water Advisory	Issued for residents of Novi and Walled Lake
School Closures	Closed on Thursday, reopened on Friday
Repair Timeframe	10 to 15 days for full repairs
Aging Infrastructure	Pipes date back to the 1970s