An important alert for residents of the Village of Skokie

February 14, 2025

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Skokie Public Works continues work to repair a major water transmission main break in the area of Emerson Street and East Prairie Road.

Crews are coordinating with neighboring communities and working to restore water pressure and service to all impacted customers as soon as possible.

When will water service be restored?

The Village is hopeful that water service will be restored to most customers on Friday evening, however; the Boil Order will remain in place until water sampling and testing can be completed.

As we work to restore water pressure, we’re asking that community members avoid non-essential tap water use, and use bottled water instead to the extent possible. 

When will the Boil Order be lifted?

Once water service is restored, water will be sampled and tested according to Illinois EPA guidance. The Village anticipates that the Boil Order will likely be in place through at least Saturday evening. Additional notifications will follow once the Boil Order is lifted.

Who is impacted by the Boil Order?

The Boil Water Order impacts all Skokie water customers, including those in the 60076, 60077, and 60203 zip codes.

What does a Boil Water Order mean?

All Skokie water customers are advised to not drink tap water without boiling it. Community members should:

Water can still be used for flushing toilets, showering, and washing hands. However, as we work to restore water pressure to the system, please avoid non-essential tap water use, and use bottled water instead to the extent possible. 

Boiling kills any potential bacteria and other organisms in water.

Is the Village distributing water?

The Village is distributing bottled water directly to critical facilities – including senior care and living facilities. 

Warming centers

Robert Crown Community Center, 1801 Main St., in Evanston, is available as a warming center during its operating hours.

Many Skokie warming centers are closed due to lack of water supply.

What should I do if my property has been damaged?

If residents have experienced property damage due to the water main break, they should contact their insurance provider immediately. The Village will coordinate with the insurance provider afterward to address liability issues if necessary.

How will updates be shared?

Updates will continue to be shared on the Village website, skokie.org, as well as on the Village’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, via The Scoop eNewsletter, and through Smart911. (Subscribe to Smart911.)

What traffic impacts are in place?

East Prairie, from Golf to Lyons, will remain closed as a work zone.

Additional road closures may be lifted as water levels recede.

What can I do to prevent frozen water pipes?

Keep your home warm at a warmer temperature than usual. Insulate pipes and keep cabinet doors open in kitchens and bathrooms.

Additional updates will follow as they become available.