Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. updated the local State of Emergency he declared Christmas Day over the city’s water issues because of the deep freeze that hit the area over the weekend.

On Sunday, Perkins said that water pipes burst throughout the city because of the deep freeze and it was a strong possibility that the city would run out of water if the situation weren’t addressed properly.

After drastic improvement Monday because of efforts from the water board system crew, Robert Bridges, Selma Public Works, and Public Safety Departments, the situation worsened Monday evening.

Perkins addressed the Queen City residents, “Citizens of Selma, as frozen pipes thawed, more leaks have developed. The result, the water tables are dropping again. This time they are dropping from already low levels and this is not good. The crews have been working all day just to keep up. Now we must take a more drastic step. Starting immediately, the Water Board will begin turning off main lines throughout the city in an attempt to further isolate major leaks. This means your water may be turned off at any time and I cannot give you a time in which it will be restored. We will start in areas we believe are most suspect. I know you may need to catch some water but please limit the amount of water you draw for it will make the problem worse. Also, when we restore your water you will probably experience some brown water but resist the urge to flush your lines because that too will make things worse. I hope you are getting the picture.”

Perkins urged residents to check their properties. “If your building has a basement, especially in the downtown area be sure to check the basement area. Check your sprinkler systems. Check your churches and walk your block. Look for puddles that should not be there. Listen for running water. Check ditch lines to see if there is more water than usual flowing through the ditch.”

Perkins added, “If you do not know how to turn your water off at the meter, please call the Selma Water and Sewer Board emergency line at 334-874-8857 or 334-349-1315.”