Water boil advisory issued for Wilkinson, Swift Road area

Drivers should try to use an alternate route near the intersection of Swift Road and Wilkinson Road for at least the next day.

A water main broke at the intersection last night, causing the two inside lanes on Swift to close. As Sarasota County Public Utilities staff and contractors work to repair and repave over the break, more lane closures may occur. County crews are still working to identify the exact location of the break, according to a press release from the county.

Sheriff’s Office deputies are on site to direct traffic. The intersection is not closed, but drivers are asked to use caution, as only one lane on southbound Swift Road is currently open. Swift is anticipated to be fully open by Thursday.

About 125 homes were given a boil water advisory on Midland Road and Swift Road between Wilkinson Road and Bee Ridge Road.

A boil water advisory is issued when there is any possibility that the water utility system has been contaminated. Residents are advised to boil any water used for drinking (both for humans and pets), washing dishes or food, brushing teeth, or making ice—basically any instance in which water would be ingested. It does not need to be boiled for washing your hands, laundry, bathing or watering plants.

The county recommends bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to kill any potential bacteria or parasites. Alternatively, about one fourth of a teaspoon of bleach can be added per gallon of water for disinfection.

The advisory will remain in effect for 24 to 36 hours.

This story will be updated as new information is issued.