MATTAPOISETT — The Mattapoisett Water Sewer Department is experiencing a series of water main break problems that are affecting water service around the town.

The first water main break was discovered Monday afternoon, Dec. 20 on Sea Marsh Way. The repair of the break was completed at 10:30 p.m. that evening. Discolored water may be experienced in the area of Prospect Road, Crescent Beach, and Point Connett. Hydrants in the area have been left open to flush the water system.

Then, another water main break was identified on Church Street on Tuesday morning at 8:30am. Construction efforts to repair the break are now being organized and the cut into the road will commence shortly.  Discolored water may be experienced in the Village.

Randall Road and the surrounding area did experience some discolored water on Monday as the result of the opening of hydrants to fight the Mattapoisett Power Equipment structure fire. The discoloration cleared by midafternoon.

Water Department Consultant Chuck McCullough said that the department suspected that the issues may have been caused by the response to the Mattapoisett Power Equipment fire on Monday.

“It may be coincidental but it could also be linked to the fire and the pressure of the water used to fight it,” he said. “We suspect the fire. Weakened areas [of the water main] just can’t handle the extra pressure.”

The Water Department will continue to update the town as information becomes available.