Ironwood break fixed, water restoration begins

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IRONWOOD - The leak in an Ironwood water main that caused minor flooding on Lake Street Thursday evening has been fixed, according to the Ironwood Public Safety Department.

Following work Saturday on various issues, including valve problems, the city has begun restoring water to residents, police said.

Ironwood residents are being asked to turn on water faucets in their homes. If air comes out of the tap, police advise keeping it open until a steady stream of water is observed. If no water comes out, residents should contact public safety.

Fire department officials were working Saturday night and planning to work into today flushing hydrants.

The break occurred around 9 p.m. Thursday and was repaired Saturday morning. A state of emergency was called for the city by Gogebic County, and the city has been receiving support from surrounding municipalities and the American Red Cross.

Local businesses have also pitched in by donating bottled water, police said.

Portable toilets have been set up at the Public Safety Office and residents can contact the department if they are in need of water. Those residents who can obtain water from the tap are strongly advised to boil it for five minutes before using.