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Major Water Main Break Disrupts Service in Oakland County

Workers repairing a large water main break in Oakland County

Novi, MI, September 29, 2025

News Summary

A significant water main break in Novi is causing widespread service disruptions for thousands in Oakland County. Affected areas include Commerce, Walled Lake, and parts of Novi, with residents advised to boil water and conserve resources. Hospital services are adjusting as authorities work to restore normal flow, while local events continue with measures in place to accommodate attendees.


Oakland County is currently experiencing significant disruptions due to a major water main break that occurred on Thursday. The break at a 42-inch water main on 14 Mile Road in Novi, located just west of M-5, has caused loss of municipal water service or reduced pressure for thousands of residents, particularly impacting the cities of Commerce, Walled Lake, and parts of Novi.

The Great Lakes Water Authority, which manages the transmission line, has taken steps to address the issue by installing a new pipe piece over the weekend. However, despite these efforts, normal water service has yet to be restored. Residents of Wixom faced an additional concern on Monday morning when another loss in water pressure was reported.

To ensure health and safety, a boil water advisory has been issued for many residents in the affected areas. This advisory mandates that water should be boiled for at least one minute before any use. City officials in Novi have indicated that the best-case scenario for the restoration of full service is anticipated to be Tuesday, although testing results may push this timeline into Wednesday.

Residents are encouraged to continue boiling water until they receive further notice, and those who utilize water from Great Lakes Water Authority lines are advised to turn off their outdoor sprinklers to conserve water. A precautionary boil water notice is also in effect for Commerce Township and Walled Lake to ensure the safety of all residents.

Healthcare facilities are also affected by the ongoing situation. Huron Valley Hospital in Commerce Township remains unaffected by the boil water advisory, while Providence Hospital has switched to using bottled water and has restricted tap water use. Additionally, Henry Ford Columbus Medical Center has been closed due to the water main break.

Despite the disruptions, the Women’s Expo at the Suburban Collection Showplace will proceed as scheduled, with contingency plans in place for portable facilities and concessions to accommodate attendees.

Traffic is restricted to a single lane for eastbound vehicles on 14 Mile Road due to ongoing utility work related to the break. Residents in need of non-drinkable water for toilets or drinkable water can access supplies while public works provide solutions until 9 p.m. Schools in the affected areas were closed but are now reopening for classes.

Updates on the situation are being disseminated through city websites and social media channels to keep residents informed.

### FAQ

FAQ

What caused the water issues in Oakland County?

A massive water main break occurred on Thursday at a 42-inch water main on 14 Mile Road in Novi, just west of M-5.

How many residents have been affected?

The break has resulted in the loss of municipal water service or pressure for thousands of residents, particularly affecting areas in Commerce, Walled Lake, and parts of Novi.

Who is responsible for the water main?

The Great Lakes Water Authority is responsible for the transmission line and has installed a new pipe piece over the weekend, but normal water service has yet to be restored.

What precautions should residents take?

A boil water advisory was implemented for many residents in affected areas, stating that water should be boiled for at least one minute before use.

When will water service be restored?

City officials in Novi reported that the best-case scenario for full service restoration was projected to be Tuesday, with a possibility extending into Wednesday, depending on testing results.

Are there any updates on hospitals?

Huron Valley Hospital in Commerce Township is not affected by the boil water advisory, but Providence Hospital has switched to bottled water and restricted tap water usage. Henry Ford Columbus Medical Center remains closed due to the water main break.

What about local events?

The Women’s Expo at the Suburban Collection Showplace will continue as planned, with contingency plans in place for portable facilities and concessions.

How can residents stay informed?

Updates are being communicated through city websites and social media channels.

Feature Details
Incident 42-inch water main break in Novi
Affected Areas Commerce, Walled Lake, parts of Novi
Advisory Boil Water Advisory in effect
Health Precautions Water should be boiled for at least one minute before use
Restoration Timeline Best-case scenario Tuesday, may extend to Wednesday
Hospital Status Huron Valley Hospital unaffected; Providence Hospital using bottled water; Henry Ford Columbus Medical Center closed
Traffic Impact Single lane restriction on 14 Mile Road

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER

The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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