Well that would suck. A complete shut-off (i.e. no boiling) would make it much more difficult if you weren't prepared.

Our neighbourhood water main usually blows a couple times a year, leaving us without water for a day or so. It's easy enough to deal with as long as you've got water stored for just such an occasion. Many of my neighbours haven't figured it out yet.

Sounds like this was completely unexpected and longer lasting.