WSSC Water is asking all 1.9 million customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, Maryland, to use water only for essential purposes while electrical work continues at its Potomac Water Filtration Plant.

The plant supplies drinking water to about 75% of WSSC Water customers. A power issue initially affected plant operations, prompting the utility to ask customers to conserve water to preserve system storage and fire protection capacity while electrical service was restored.

WSSC Water said the situation has since stabilized from a water production standpoint, with the Potomac plant continuing to produce water and replenish the distribution system. However, critical electrical work remains underway and the plant is operating under a temporary internal electrical configuration while crews work to restore normal operations.

The essential-water-use-only request remains in effect until further notice. Customers are being asked to avoid outdoor water use, limit toilet flushing and reduce use of washing machines and dishwashers.

WSSC Water said its drinking water remains safe and there is no boil-water advisory. The utility has also temporarily suspended planned maintenance and construction work to minimize impacts on the distribution system while continuing to respond to water and sewer emergencies.

The utility will continue monitoring water production, system demand and permanent electrical repairs as work proceeds.