A water boil advisory is now in effect for approximately 400 customers of the Tamaqua Area Water Authority. Work to replace a 30-inch water main began in earnest on Monday. Borough officials expect the line replacement part of the project to be completed with a week to 10 days.

The affected area includes customers who live and work in the Dutch Hill and East End sections of the town. A map of the area is available on the borough's website at

www.tamaquaborough.com.During the project, the authority will be using a large-diameter hose connected to two fire hydrants to provide water to customers in the affected area. Customers could experience low water pressure and discolored water, although discolored water, by itself, doesn't necessarily mean it is unsafe to drink. It also opens the water in the hose to the possibility that disease-containing organisms could find their way into the water.These organisms could contain bacteria, viruses and/or parasites, which may cause nausea, cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.All water to be used for drinking, cooking, dish washing, ice making and teeth brushing should be brought to a rolling boil and boiled for at least one minute.After the new sections of pipe are in place, the authority will conduct water sample testing. Test samples will be taken to an independent lab. Once two consecutive days of tests are clear, the boil advisory will be lifted.For more information, call 570-668-0300 or 570-668-3444.