The winter storm of the last several days has left water woes for several rural water systems. Administrators from these water systems and Homeland Security have asked residents to check for leaks and some systems are now under boil advisories.

Fairview water system issued a precautionary boil advisory on January 16, after a water main break on Hwy 480. This included the area beginning where Bright Morning Star Church Road meets Hwy 480 and includes homes going north in Coushatta to Brown Road. They reported that a portion of roadway broke away and damaged the water main. This problem is in addition to the request for all residents to check for leaks on private property as the pipes thaw.

Hickory Grove water system administrators indicated that leaks on private land might be the major cause for their water shortage. In the past 24 hrs the entire tank has drained. They plan to keep the water off till the tank can fill and then attempt to open again. They are requesting that a check be made of each house.

Martin Water System has also been concerned about low pressure and possible leaks. Each homeowner is asked to make a survey of their property for possible water leaks.

The Town of Coushatta also had a problem with water Thursday that caused the Red River Parish School Board to dismiss school early, Thursday. This calamity was not the result of leaky pipes or frozen ground. A source reported that the gas company was working at the north Y and punctured the water main. Crews have been working to get the water restored in town.

With more freezing weather headed into the Ark-La-Tex, homeowners should take the time now to search for and repair any leaks. Then everyone should be prepared for our second round of winter chill.