NEWS 28 - Mesa state health officials say that Mesa's water is safe to drink and cook with, but asks that residents monitor their water for the next few days as corroding piping could cause yellowish-brown or dark brown water. Officials ask residents that have yellowish-brown water to contact the state water department to address the piping concerns.
"Residents are now able to drink their tap and shower water safely, but we ask that you continue your tap and shower water for discoloration," said Health Department spokesperson Brittany Weirden. "While the water in the state is safe to drink, some pipes may have been corroded and metal and rusk may be present in water that appears yellowish-brown or very dark brown. Any discoloration should always be reported, and water that is not clear, should also be reported."
While the state is issuing that water is safe, residents are being advised at health and safety advocates to monitor their water anytime they plan to bath or cook. Rust can carry lead, which can cause illness.
The state is continuing to monitor its water, but says that residents should be able to drink the water safely, as long as the water remains clear. They have a water status reporting form which can be found on the State Of Mesa website.
"Please, please, please monitor your water," said Governor Joshua Adamson. "Water is now considered safe to drink, but any discoloration that you see needs to be reported. What the discoloration means is that there is some rust or bacteria in the water, which changes the color of the water, meaning it is not safe to drink. But if water remains clear, then the water is safe to drink. All the water has been treated so there is really no risk to your health unless you see yellowish-brown or brown water. If you get yellowish-brown water, you need to contact your local water authority and have them check out your pipes."