WAVERLY, OHIO — As the water crisis in Waverly continues, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided an update on the situation, emphasizing ongoing efforts to address the emergency that has left the southern Ohio community without reliable water access.

According to an OEPA spokesperson, “Ohio EPA is actively monitoring the situation in Waverly. The city repaired a major leak over the weekend and is currently working with other public water systems to find another leak. Right now, the important thing is for consumers to minimize their water usage until the system is repaired and water pressure returns to normal. This is important to ensure critical users, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and dialysis centers continue to have sufficient water. This is why the emergency was declared and remains in effect.”

The state of emergency has left Waverly’s residents under a Do Not Use Order, prohibiting water usage for any purpose, including drinking, cooking, or bathing. Exceptions to the order apply only to critical users, such as healthcare facilities. Residents are being asked to strictly conserve water to ensure repairs can proceed efficiently.

Community Impact and Emergency Efforts

The water crisis stems from a significant leak in the Waverly Water System, which has caused water pressure to plummet across the area. Although city crews repaired one major leak over the weekend, additional leaks are suspected, and efforts to locate and resolve them are ongoing.

The OEPA has stressed the importance of water conservation to maintain supply for critical facilities and expedite the repair process. To aid residents, bottled water is being distributed at the Waverly Fire Station, in collaboration with the Pike County Emergency Management Agency (EMA). Distribution is expected to continue as the situation develops.

On its social media account, the Waverly Fire Department clarified the scope of the emergency, stating, “Currently, the Village is not directing businesses to close. That is up to each business to decide. However, this Do Not Use Order is for ALL water uses. Drinking, flushing, cleaning, etc., except for critical facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and dialysis centers. Please do not use any water from the Waverly Municipal Water System.”

A Town on Edge

The ongoing crisis has disrupted daily life in Waverly, with residents and businesses grappling with the lack of water. Local officials are working alongside the OEPA and Pike County EMA to address the crisis and keep the community informed.

While progress has been made, the timeline for restoring normal water pressure remains uncertain. In the meantime, residents are urged to continue adhering to the Do Not Use Order and to stay updated through official announcements from the city and emergency services.

As Waverly’s water system undergoes critical repairs, the resilience of this tight-knit community is being tested. State and local officials are working around the clock to bring relief and restore essential water services as quickly as possible.

The Guardian has also reached out to the Ohio Department of Health, as of this reporting we have yet to hear from the agency.

Jay Salley is the news editor for the Guardian.