A significant water disruption in Oxfordshire has led to the emergency closure of at least 15 schools after a burst pipe near a critical reservoir. The incident occurred near Witney, where thousands of Thames Water customers have reported a lack of fresh water following damage to vital infrastructure that connects water supplies to the region. Despite efforts to repair part of the damaged pipe, residents remain affected, with insufficient water available for domestic use.

The burst pipe, which is located off the Oxford Road near Swinford Toll Bridge, is critical for serving a large area that includes West Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. The situation has forced local authorities to act quickly to ensure the safety and welfare of students, leading to decisions made by Oxfordshire County Council to close 13 schools, with additional primary schools following suit. The closures are expected to last approximately three days, impacting the education and routines of many families in the region.

This incident highlights the vulnerabilities within local infrastructure, particularly in times of emergency, as a single failure can have widespread repercussions on community services such as schools. The response to the situation, including repair efforts and support for affected families, will determine how quickly normalcy can be restored in Witney and surrounding areas.