City of El Reno crews have located the water leak that caused widespread water service and pressure issues beginning Wednesday.

At approximately 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, crews located the leak in the 800 block of West Jensen Road. Crews described the area surrounding the leak as a “swamp” due to the significant amount of water that had accumulated.

The leak was found in a private waterline on privately-owned property and was not the result of a failure of the City of El Reno’s water system.

A private fire hydrant on the property was not visible from the roadway, which contributed to the difficulty crews experienced in identifying the property and locating the source of the significant water loss.

Water service to the property was shut off, and crews immediately observed an increase in pressure at the city’s lake water tower.

Approximately 3 million gallons of water are estimated to have been lost as a result of the leak.

Although the source of the water loss has been isolated, it will take time for pressure to rebuild throughout the system and for normal water service to be restored. Residents and businesses in affected areas may continue to experience low water pressure as the system recovers.

Outside watering is prohibited at this time. The city also asks residents and businesses to use water responsibly inside homes and businesses while water tower levels and system pressure recover.

Free bottled water will be available to the public Thursday afternoon at The Filling Station, 120 S. Choctaw Ave. Additional information regarding distribution times will be shared as it becomes available.

The City of El Reno appreciates the patience and cooperation of residents and businesses as the water system recovers. Additional updates will be provided as conditions improve.