24-Hour Emergency Information

Western Water is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to emergency situations involving service line breaks, mainline breaks, sewer blockages and overflows, sewer manhole problems, and more.

To report a water emergency, security emergency, or after-hours water outage, contact Western Water's emergency services line at 951.789.5109.


For all other non-emergency situations, please get in touch with Western Water's Customer Service team at 951.571.7104.

Water Shutdowns

Western Water works to maintain and repair the water system to ensure safe, reliable service. During shutdowns, whether planned or due to an emergency, our priority is restoring service quickly and safely while ensuring water quality meets the highest standards.

What to expect during a water shutdown


For planned maintenance, customers will be notified in advance via email, phone, and/or letter. Notifications will include the expected start time, duration, and any necessary preparations. Whenever possible, we aim to provide at least 72 hours' notice.

For emergency shutdowns, such as water main breaks and leaks, we will notify affected customers as soon as possible and provide updates as they become available. Customers will receive notices via email, text, and/or phone call. 

In an effort to minimize disruptions, Western Water will not send out notifications between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless it is a critical emergency affecting public health and safety.

Upcoming planned shutdown:


Shutdown dates: January 30 - February 5, 2026 

Henry J. Mills Water Treatment Plant / Metropolitan Water District Shutdown (MWD Shutdown)

Tap water will remain safe and available, but supplies will be limited. 

Customers asked to conserve:

  • Western Water retail customers in the Riverside retail service area 
  • HOAs, parks/medians, and irrigation-only accounts 
  • Construction potable water users 

Additional information is available at the link below.

Button 2025 Rates

To help reduce outdoor water use during the shutdown, visit WesternWaterCA.gov/SaveWater for water-saving tips.

Recommendations for preparing for a planned water shutdown


We work to minimize disruptions, but delays may occur. Preparing is encouraged during a water shutdown.

  • Store enough water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
  • Turn off automatic irrigation systems.
  • Ensure pets and livestock have a temporary water supply.
Two construction workers in blue hard hats and yellow vests discuss paperwork at a worksite.

What to expect after a water shutdown


Once water service is restored, it’s normal to notice temporary changes in water pressure or appearance. These changes are usually minor and short-lived.

Important: Western Water will not restore water service until testing confirms it is safe and meets all quality standards.

Common post-shutdown issues and how to fix them:


Air in the lines (spitting or sputtering faucets)

What it looks like: Water comes out in bursts or makes unusual sounds. 

What to do: Turn on the cold water tap and let it run for a few minutes until the flow is smooth.

Cloudy or milky water

What it looks like: Water appears white or foggy, especially right after turning on the faucet. 

What to do: Run cold water for up to 15 minutes. Fill a clear glass and let it sit. If it clears from the bottom up, it’s just tiny air bubbles (harmless).

Discolored water (brown, yellow, or reddish)

What it looks like: Water looks tinted or dirty, often due to stirred-up sediment in the pipes. 

What to do: Run cold water from an outdoor spigot or bathtub for up to 15 minutes until it clears. Avoid using hot water until the discoloration goes away to protect your water heater. If hot water is discolored, flush your water heater until it runs clear.

Questions?

If water remains cloudy, discolored, or continues sputtering after flushing, contact Western Water's Customer Service at 951.571.7104 or email us.