Scheduled water main work may temporarily cause discoloured water this week for some residents in parts of northeast Winnipeg

Released: May 31, 2013 at 1:35 p.m.

Winnipeg, MB - In conjunction with water main repair work being completed on Raleigh Street and Springfield Road, a large water main will be returned to operation today.

Water service will not be disrupted, but tap water may be temporarily discoloured for about a day for some residents in North Kildonan, Harbourview and the north part of Elmwood/East Kildonan.

Water mains are underground pipes that carry water from pumping stations to the street. Water travels slowly through the mains, causing sediment to settle to the bottom and build up over time. Mineral deposits will also form on pipe walls. Adjusting the flow of the water in the mains (e.g., due to water main work, hydrant use for firefighting) can temporarily disturb the sediment and deposits in the pipes, and can cause discoloured water for some properties.

Discoloured water events typically don’t last long. The disturbed sediment and deposits that are normally associated with these events have not been found to pose a health concern, and should not make you sick. However, discoloured water may not smell, taste or look pleasant, and can stain laundry.

To check if water is discoloured:

  • Turn on a cold water tap and let the water run for a few minutes.
  • Catch some water in a light-coloured cup or container to see if it is clear. If it is clear, it can be used. If the water doesn’t clear within five minutes, wait 30 minutes and try again.

If discoloured water persists for more than two to three hours, residents should call 311.

The City has a program to clean water mains each year to help preserve the very high quality of water as it passes from the drinking water treatment plant to the taps.

Manitoba Health and Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship regulate the quality of Winnipeg’s drinking water using the Manitoba Drinking Water Safety Act and the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

Winnipeg’s water is tested each step of the way, from Shoal Lake to the tap, to ensure safe, high-quality drinking water. Because water quality is so important, the City does more testing than the provincial government requires.

Winnipeg residents will be informed immediately if there is ever a water quality problem that could affect public health.

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