A significant water main break in Northeast El Paso has prompted widespread closures affecting thousands of residents. Officials have announced that 15 school campuses will be closed on Monday, January 12, 2026, due to public safety concerns. The disruption has also forced the temporary shutdown of essential public services at the El Paso County Northeast Annex.
Key Takeaways
- A major water main break has occurred in Northeast El Paso.
- Fifteen school campuses will be closed on Monday, January 12, 2026, as a precaution.
- The El Paso County Northeast Annex is closed, halting key public services.
- A boil water advisory has been issued for the affected areas.
- Residents seeking county services should call 915-273-3200 for information on alternative locations.
Widespread Closures Impact Schools and County Operations
The decision to close facilities stems from growing public safety concerns following the rupture of a major water line. The primary impact will be felt by families with children in the 15 affected schools, who must now make alternative arrangements for Monday.
The closures extend beyond the education sector. The El Paso County Northeast Annex, a vital hub for local government services, has also ceased operations until the water supply is deemed safe and fully restored. This closure directly impacts residents who rely on the annex for a variety of essential needs.
Navigating School Shutdowns
School district officials made the call to close the 15 campuses to ensure the health and safety of students and staff. Without a reliable and safe water supply, basic sanitation and hydration needs cannot be met, creating an untenable environment for learning.
Parents are advised to monitor official communications from their respective school districts for updates on when classes will resume. Information is expected to be released as repair crews assess the extent of the damage and estimate a timeline for restoring service.
Understanding the Scope
Water main breaks of this magnitude can disrupt daily life for tens of thousands of people. The impact goes beyond inconvenience, posing potential public health risks and causing significant logistical challenges for families, businesses, and public institutions. Repairing such infrastructure is often a complex process involving excavation, pipe replacement, and extensive testing before water service can be safely restored.
Essential Government Services Temporarily Halted
The closure of the Northeast Annex presents a significant challenge for residents needing to conduct official business. The facility, which normally operates from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays, is a one-stop location for several critical departments.
Services currently unavailable at the Northeast Annex include:
- Tax Office: Property tax payments and related inquiries.
- County Clerk’s Office: Filing of public records, marriage licenses, and other legal documents.
- Justice of the Peace #2: Court proceedings and filings for this precinct.
- Financial Recovery Division: Payment plans and collections.
County officials have stated that employees from the affected offices may be temporarily reassigned to other locations to maintain continuity of service where possible. This measure aims to minimize the disruption for both the public and county staff.
Need Assistance? El Paso County residents who require the services normally provided at the Northeast Annex are encouraged to call 915-273-3200. This line will provide information on alternative county offices that can offer assistance during the closure.
Public Health at the Forefront with Boil Advisory
In addition to the closures, a boil water advisory has been issued for the areas impacted by the main break. This is a standard precautionary measure taken when the integrity of the water distribution system is compromised.
A loss of pressure in the water lines, which can happen during a major break, can allow contaminants like bacteria to enter the system. Boiling water is the most effective way to kill these potential pathogens and ensure it is safe for consumption.
What the Boil Advisory Means for Residents
During a boil water advisory, residents in the affected zone should take the following precautions:
- Bring all water intended for consumption to a rolling boil for at least one minute.
- Let the water cool before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or making ice.
- Use boiled or bottled water for washing dishes, fruits, and vegetables.
- It is generally safe to shower or bathe, but care should be taken to avoid swallowing water.
Public health officials will conduct rigorous testing of the water supply once repairs are complete. The advisory will only be lifted after tests confirm that the water meets all safety standards. Residents should continue to follow the advisory until they receive official notification that it has been rescinded.