(PLATTSBURGH, NY - Tuesday August 30 2022) - The City is aware of discolored water throughout the distribution system and is actively trying to fix the problem. This could still take some time. Testing shows that the water is adequately disinfected for consumption. However, if your water is brown or clearly discolored, you should avoid drinking or cooking with it until it clears up. If residents want to let the City know that their water is discolored, please call 518-563-1188 and leave a message with your name, address and phone number. If you would like to speak with someone, please request that as part of your voicemail. All calls will be logged and information placed in the database.
City staff are working hard to improve this situation. Since it first started a few weeks ago, staff have increased bacteria testing and disinfectant surveillance throughout the system to make sure the water is safe to consume. In all cases, no bacteria were discovered and there has been adequate disinfectant.
More recently:
- Scuba divers were brought in to inspect the storage tanks. In general, the tanks looked fine but there was a slight build up of silt in the bottoms. During high water demand such as main breaks or fire flows, this silt can enter the piping system and cause discoloration.
- One of the water storage tanks has drained and cleaned. The second tank will be drained and cleaned soon.
- The treatment and filtration process is being analyzed to ensure everything is working efficiently.
- System flushing has been initiated.
Once the silt is removed from the tanks, the distribution piping system throughout the City will need to be flushed to remove any remaining solids. This could take a week or more to clean the entire system.
In the meantime, increased testing and surveillance will continue. Even though the water is adequately disinfected, if you observe water that is obviously dirty, seek other sources for drinking and cooking.
Please continue to check the city’s website for the most up to date information regarding water quality and testing. Boil water advisories and other alerts will be posted as issued. We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
