Multiple water-main failures in the Eling area of Totton, near Southampton, have left roughly 300 homes with no water or reduced pressure and caused localised flooding, authorities confirmed on Thursday.
What happened
Southern Water reported that engineers are attending the scene following two significant bursts to water mains. The utility said teams are working to make safe repairs and restore supplies as quickly as possible.
"Our teams are responding to multiple water main bursts in the Eling area near Southampton... Around 300 customers are currently experiencing a loss of water supply or low water pressure as a result of the incident," a Southern Water spokesman said.
Staff from New Forest District Council have also attended the location. Sandbags were deployed at at least one property to reduce the impact of surface water entering buildings.
Local reaction and conditions on the ground
Residents described the scene as distressing. One Totton resident told the local paper the situation was "not ideal" and expressed concerns about the smell and the flooding. A nearby builder, Damien Jordon, said he found the event a "disaster" and voiced frustration given ongoing water-saving measures in the area.
- Number of properties affected: around 300
- Cause reported: two significant water main bursts
- Organisations on site: Southern Water and New Forest District Council staff
Practical information for residents
Southern Water said it is monitoring the situation and will issue further updates as repairs proceed. At present, households affected may experience either a complete loss of supply or low water pressure. Residents should:
- Conserve water where possible until full supply is restored;
- Follow any safety instructions from local council staff or emergency teams on site;
- Keep clear of flood-affected areas and avoid driving through deep water.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eling area, Totton |
| Reported affected properties | ~300 |
| Primary response | Southern Water engineers; New Forest District Council |
Southern Water emphasised the bursts were not caused by sewage, countering an earlier report, and thanked customers for their patience while repair work continues. The utility has not provided a definitive timescale for full restoration.
We will continue to monitor updates from the company and the council and publish further information as it becomes available, including any advice on water safety and distribution points should they be required.
