BROCKTON, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com/AP) -- Water service was restored in Brockton early Thursday morning following a massive water main break on Wednesday that disrupted service to thousands.
As of Thursday, residents were still under a boil water order. According to the mayor, the order would not be lifted until Friday afternoon at the earliest.
Brockton schools were open on Thursday.
Officials in Brockton declared a state of emergency after a water main break interrupted service to at least 75,000 area residents Wednesday. Workers were on scene late into the night, trying to finish repairs.
The state issued a boil water order for Brockton and Whitman Wednesday. Residents of nearby Hanson who get Brockton water service also were affected.
Officials said a century-old, 24-inch water main running to Brockton from Silver Lake broke in East Bridgewater around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday. Crews were working to restore it, but officials had no time estimate.
Brockton schools dismissed classes early, some businesses closed and some hospitals rescheduled elective procedures. Water tankers were on standby for the fire department and Brockton Hospital.
The Boys and Girls Club of Brockton and Massasoit Community College were closed on Wednesday and Brockton High School was dismissed at 11 a.m.
Police say that East Bridgewater had a minimal impact, with only a few houses affected.
The city of Brockton gave water out to residents Wednesday night at four middle schools in the city.