Thank you to our south side customers for their patience yesterday as discolored water was reported in the distribution system. The Water Utility started to receive calls reporting discolored water in areas between Mead and Washington Avenue yesterday morning. Discolored and cloudy water generally occurs when there are large changes in velocity or flow direction within the water distribution system. These changes in velocity can occur when a water main break occurs, fire systems are tested, or fire hydrants are used. Poly orthophosphate (a chemical used to coat pipes and alleviate water contact with lead water services) along with sediment can be stirred into solution and remain suspended for a period. The Water Utility dispatched crews to start flushing water from the problematic areas. As the day progressed, we were alerted to additional areas that were experiencing discolored water, and crews were dispatched to flush those water mains as well. Below is a general area outlining the locations affected:
If discolored water is experienced in the home, we recommend that homeowners run their cold water for 10-15 minutes. If the discoloration continues after flushing the internal plumbing, the homeowner should contact the Water Utility. Although aesthetically displeasing, and we do not recommend drinking the discolored water, there should not be ongoing concerns with the water quality in these areas. We are not aware of any ongoing water quality issues. If you are experiencing discolored or cloudy water, please contact the Water Utility at 920-459-3800 so we can investigate the situation. We apologize for any inconvenience this event may have caused, and will continue to work on providing high quality, and reliable water service to the city.