Novi, September 26, 2025
News Summary
A significant water main break in Novi has caused a major disruption, leading to the cancellation of classes in local schools and concerns about upcoming homecoming events. A boil water advisory has been issued for residents, who are urged to take precautions with their water usage. The city’s Department of Public Works is providing access to both drinkable and non-drinkable water. This incident highlights the challenges faced due to aging water infrastructure, affecting not only Novi but surrounding communities as well.
Novi experienced a significant water main break on September 25, 2025, located on 14 Mile Road just west of M-5. The incident resulted in a dramatic loss of water pressure, impacting numerous residents and local schools. Consequently, Novi Public Schools were forced to cancel classes for the day, which included students from Novi High School and several other area educational institutions.
The disruption comes just days before homecoming weekend, raising concerns among parents regarding scheduled festivities, including the parade, football game, and dance. Many parents are uncertain about whether these events can proceed as planned due to the ongoing situation with the water supply. One parent has taken in five seniors affected by the outage, highlighting the wider impact of the break on the community.
Novi Community Schools Superintendent Ben Mainka indicated that the timing of the water main repair would be critical in determining the status of the planned homecoming activities. Other schools impacted by the break include Detroit Catholic Central, Meadowbrook Elementary, and Walled Lake Elementary.
In response to the break, a boil water advisory was issued for parts of Oakland County as a precautionary measure due to the reduced water pressure. Residents have been advised to boil water for at least one minute before consuming it. This advisory extends to drinking water, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and preparing food until further notice.
As an immediate solution, the city’s Department of Public Works has launched a drive-through service to provide non-drinkable water for residents to use for toilet flushing. Additionally, drinkable water is being made available at ITC Community Sports Park until 9 p.m. on the same day, coming from a well source. Residents must bring their own containers to collect both drinkable and non-drinkable water.
Efforts to manage and repair the water main break were still underway as of 2:15 p.m. on September 25. The complete restoration of water service is expected to take several hours. Reports from nearby residents indicate unprecedented conditions, with many experiencing a complete loss of water service.
The break has brought attention to the aging water infrastructure, much of which was originally installed in the 1970s. Surrounding communities, including Wixom, Commerce Township, and Walled Lake, are also experiencing similar issues, with some areas lifting advisories but still facing potential drops in water pressure.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates regarding water service and advisories through the official websites and social media platforms of their respective cities. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges presented by aging infrastructure and community resilience in the face of unexpected emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the water main break in Novi?
The water main break was caused by aging infrastructure, with the pipes being installed in the 1970s.
Which schools are affected by the closure?
Novi High School, along with other local schools including Detroit Catholic Central, Meadowbrook Elementary, and Walled Lake Elementary, are affected.
What should residents do regarding water usage?
Residents are advised to boil water for at least one minute before consuming it and to use bottled water or boiled water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene until further notice.
How can residents obtain water during this incident?
Residents can access non-drinkable water for toilet flushing through a drive-through service from the city’s Department of Public Works and drinkable water at ITC Community Sports Park.
When is water service expected to be restored?
The repair process was ongoing as of the latest update, with restoration expected to take several hours.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | September 25, 2025 |
| Location | 14 Mile Road west of M-5, Novi |
| Impact on Schools | Novi Public Schools and additional local schools closed |
| Boil Water Advisory | In effect for parts of Oakland County |
| Access to Water | Non-drinkable and drinkable water provided at designated locations |
| Aging Infrastructure | Pipes installed in the 1970s |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Local Hikers in Phoenix: New Data on Mountain Rescues
Additional Resources
- ClickOnDetroit: Boil Water Advisory
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- Hometown Life: Novi Boil Water Advisory
- Google Search: Novi Water Main Break
- CBS News: Water Main Break in Novi
- Google Scholar: Water Infrastructure Novi
- WXYZ: Local Businesses Adapt
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Infrastructure
- Detroit News: Novi Water Main Break and School Closures
- Google News: Novi Water Main Break September 2025
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