Boil water advisory in the East Bay

PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (WPRI) - A boil water advisory is in effect for East Bay residents after a water main break late Friday evening.

Officials say the water Middletown and Newport is not safe as of Saturday evening for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or bathing.

The advisory also affects many homes in Portsmouth. The problem was caused by a water main break on West Main Road. The main ruptured Friday evening but officials say the break had nothing to do with Hurricane Earl, but was instead caused by basic wear and tear. Crews worked for hours on Saturday to restore service and the repairs were competed by the afternoon.

The Department of Health says water should be boiled for at least one minute before being used. You can click here to read the entire advisory or call your local water department if you have any questions.