The challenge of water pipe repair shows that it is “impossible” to give an accurate restoration time

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville City Council shared an update on repair efforts after Helene wreaked havoc on the city's water system over a week ago.

In a social media post on Sunday, Oct. 6, city officials described the challenges crews faced as they attempted to rebuild a 36-inch bypass in the North Fork that Helene destroyed.

NEW DRONE IMAGES SHOW SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO ASHEVILLE'S WATER SYSTEM BY HELENE

“On Friday and Saturday, complications arose from debris clogging the remnants of the bypass pipeline and then from rainfall in the watershed to Helene,” the statement reads in part. “While progress slowed, work continued. On Sunday morning, contractors were able to install new sections of the bypass.”

The city said complications like the North Fork line, which serves 80 percent of Asheville's water customers, make it “impossible” to offer an accurate timeline for restoring service.

Mayor is urging Asheville residents to conserve water and prepare for a possible long-term water outage

Water service will be restored in some areas before others, the city said, based solely on the extent of damage to the system.

Customers are advised that a boil water warning will be in effect if their water is restored. According to the boil water advisory, customers should boil tap water vigorously for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking or consumption. This includes water used for dental care, ice making, food preparation, or other consumption purposes. It is not necessary to boil water for showering, washing, or other non-consumable purposes.