A sinkhole in a Madera roadway nearly swallowed a tanker carrying fertilizer, the California Highway Patrol said Monday.

Although Madera’s drinking water was not affected by the situation, city officials advised residents via a social media post to cut back on their water use. The goal: aiding workers trying to repair a ruptured sewer main that caused the sinkhole.

“This is NOT a drinking water issue; drinking water remains safe and unaffected,” said a post Monday on the Madera Police Department Facebook page. “However, to assist in the repair efforts and prevent further complications, which could result in sewage backup, we ask that you please refrain from non-essential water use.” Examples include:

• Doing laundry
• Washing dishes
• Taking long showers/baths
• Flushing toilets for non-solid waste
• Any other activities requiring high water discharge

The sinkhole is on Avenue 13, west of Granada Drive. The CHP said the road will likely be closed for several weeks.

The driver of the dual tanker big-rig suffered minor injuries, officials said.

A sewer line previously collapsed on June 3 near Avenue 13 and Granada. However, city officials said Monday’s sinkhole and the one last week’s were separate incidents.