A catastrophic water main break occurred during the early morning hours Monday and crews are working to restore water pressure in the city, according to the city of Whitefish.

“Crews are currently working to isolate the break, but these efforts are being hindered by the presence of ice and snow,” said City Manager Adam Hammatt, in a prepared release, early Monday.

The city also issued a boil water advisory asking folks as a precaution to boil water before consuming it. The advisory will remain in place as a precaution until the city can confirm the water is safe to consume, Hammatt said.

The break occurred on Baker Avenue near West Sixth Street.

Baker Avenue between West Sixth Street and West 10th Street remained closed as crews worked and drivers were asked to use alternate routes.

Hammatt said the break occurred in one of the lowest elevations of town and resulted in a loss of pressure to significant portion of the city.

Samples of the water are being collected and city personnel are closely monitoring the situation.

Those with severely compromised immune systems, infants and the elderly may be at increased risk and should seek advice from their health care provider before drinking water, according to the city.

The Public Works department is asking residents with water pressure to make efforts to conserve water and allow the system to refill and pressurize.

For questions, contact the Public Works at 863-2460.