Residents of Gladwin, a city in the US state of Michigan, have been asked to avoid flushing toilets, using sinks, taking showers and running other plumbing fixtures after a lightning strike damaged the city's wastewater treatment plant.
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City officials said the treatment facility was struck during a thunderstorm on Monday night, leaving it unable to operate properly, The Detroit News reports.
In a public advisory, officials warned that continued use of household plumbing could lead to sewage backing up into homes and businesses.
"Residents and businesses are asked to refrain from using bathroom facilities, including toilets, sinks, showers and other plumbing fixtures, as wastewater use could result in sewage backups," the city said.
Officials said recovery work is underway, with the city's emergency manager assessing the damage alongside municipal staff and other agencies to restore operations as quickly as possible.
The city said further updates would be issued within 24 hours as work continues to determine the full extent of the damage.
To assist residents during the disruption, portable toilets have been placed at several locations, including North Park, South Park, City Hall, the Gladwin Farmers Market and the Gladwin County Fairgrounds.
Authorities thanked residents for their cooperation while emergency repairs remain in progress.
