By Amanda Peterson, originally posted on August 3, 2016

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – A huge water main break has prompted a boil water advisory for thousands in Dauphin County.

The 24-inch main near Sixth Street and Linglestown Road in Susquehanna Township broke Wednesday morning, flooding the area and leaving many without water.

The incident initially affected Susquehanna Township customers and later affected water service to other customers in suburban Harrisburg and Perry County.

Suez Water has issued a wide-reaching boil water advisory for 16,000 homes and businesses in Lower Paxton Township, Susquehanna Township, Penbrook, and Marysville.

The boil water advisory is in effect until further notice. The company said water quality testing and test results generally take 48 hours to complete.

According to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, water should reach a rolling boil for one minute and allowed to cool before it is poured into a clean container and covered for storage. Tap water should be boiled even if it is filtered.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for washing fruits and vegetables, drinking, baby formula, washing food preparation surfaces, brushing teeth and making ice. Water given to pets should also be boiled or bottled.

When preparing food, water should reach a rolling boil for one minute before food is added.