The city of Rochester announced Tuesday that it has experienced a loss of water pressure from its primary supply from the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, which has caused disruption of service to residents in the east side of the city (east of Letica Drive, and including Village Green Apartments and Churchill Circle).
Residents in the affected area began reporting low pressure today at approximately noon. Department of Public Works personnel responded and were able to identify that the problem is with the DWSD system.
As of 1 p.m., water pressure was restored. The city has issued a “BOIL WATER ALERT” for all customers on the city’s east side served by DWSD.
When a water distribution system loses pressure, contaminants can siphon back into the water system. Public health officials consider any system that has lost pressure potentially contaminated until testing proves otherwise. The city recommends its east side water system customers vigorously boil water for five minutes before it is consumed, or use bottled water for drinking or food preparation.
The Boil Water Alert will be in effect for a minimum of 48 hours. The city will notify customers when the alert is lifted via the city’s website, (www.rochestermi.org) and on the city’s television stations (Channel 10 on WOW and Channel 17 on Comcast).
If residents have special needs and/or need assistance obtaining bottled water, please contact the Fire Department at 248-651-4470. The Fire Department has a supply of water available for those who need assistance.