During the early morning of Monday, March 27, 2023, Richland County Utilities (RCU) experienced a breach in its water system resulting in a loss of over 300,000 gallons of water.

Currently, the is no water service to Hopkins Middle School, Hopkins Elementary School, and Gadsden Elementary School, as well as the homes and businesses in the surrounding areas.

RCU is investigating the cause of the breach in an effort to make the necessary repairs to restore water service.  It is anticipated that repairs could take as long as four to six hours.

RCU has issued a boil water advisory until further notice encouraging residents to vigorously boil their water for at least one full minute prior to drinking, cooking, or using the water to make ice for beverages. This includes water for pets.

Richland County Utilities will lift the advisory and notify the customers when boiling water is no longer necessary. Please monitor Richland County’s Facebook page as well as the County’s website for updated information.