HAMDEN, Conn. (WTNH) – A fire hydrant was struck on Route 10 in Hamden on Wednesday, causing a water main break.

The Regional Water Authority responded to Route 10 on Whitney Avenue early Wednesday morning after a single car struck and destroyed a hydrant. RWA crews contained the open hydrant and assessed the damage.

RWA Vice President of Operations, Jim Courchaine, said the company worked with CTDOT to shut down the entire road so crews could work efficiently and get the customers’ water back. The section of route 10 was closed Wednesday night into early Wednesday morning.

Within 24 hours, the hydrant was replaced and water was restored to all 17,000 RWA customers.

“Our goal is to send every member of our crew home safely at night, and we thank the public for their patience,” Courchaine said.

While the water has been restored, some customers may experience temporarily discolored water. Courchaine said that emergency repair events typically require “flushing” the water mains, which may lead to discoloration and a slight drop in water pressure. The color comes from naturally occurring minerals in the water that collects in the pipes.

RWA urges customers experiencing discolored water to run a single cold-water faucet, like a bathtub, in the home for five to ten minutes to flush the waterline. If the water still remains discolored, wait an hour and try again. RWA recommends customers to wait until the water is clear before drinking it, showering, or doing laundry.

Those who are unable to get rid of the discolored water or anyone with questions can reach out to the RWA at (203) 562-4020.