Winnipeg, MB - The Midtown feeder main, a water distribution system pipe that carries water across the Assiniboine River between north and south Winnipeg, has been rehabilitated and will be returned to service on Saturday, November 23, 2013.
Tap water may be temporarily discoloured for about a day for some residents west of the Red River and north of Wilkes Avenue. Any time there is a major change in the rate or direction of flow of water in the distribution system, sediment, including dead algae and minerals (e.g., manganese, iron) in the water pipes can loosen and be released into the water. This material can stain laundry and may also affect the taste of the water or of any beverages made with it. The water can range in appearance from a light tea colour to a dark brown cola-like colour.
It is recommended that residents not use discoloured water for any purposes that require clean water, such as for drinking, preparing food and beverages, or laundry. This recommendation is because discoloured water does not taste, smell or look pleasant, and it can stain clothes - health officials do not believe that drinking discoloured water would pose a health risk.
Residents that notice their water is discoloured should:
- Turn on a cold water tap and let the water run for a few minutes. It is best to use a bathtub tap as there is no screen to trap any sediment.
- Catch some water in a light-coloured cup. If the water isn’t clear, wait 30 minutes and try again. Discoloured water usually doesn't last long. If the water still isn't clear after two to three hours, contact 311, open 24 hours every day, by phone at 311 or by email at 311@winnipeg.ca
The ten-month rehabilitation project began in January 2013 and will be completed within the Council-approved $6.8 million budget. This 900 millimetre diameter water pipe, on a unique dedicated bridge structure, has been in service since 1956 and was at the end of its service life. Restoration work included replacing the steel water pipe, strengthening and modifying the bridge structure, and riverbank stabilization.
Residents can find:
- information on Winnipeg’s water quality on the City’s website at City of Winnipeg - Water
- health information related to discoloured water at WRHA - City Drinking Water