CLEVELAND, April 20, 2006 – As a result of the power outage Cleveland experienced in 2003, The City of Cleveland Division of Water has recently installed new emergency generators. Our crews have already installed several generators in area water facilities. During startup, the crews have simulated power failures. As part of the test procedure, pumping of water is briefly interrupted. When pumping resumes, this sudden change in flow disturbs sediments in the pipe wall that causes discolored water.
Today, the Division has received calls from various communities including Bratenahl, Lyndhurst, Mayfield and South Euclid about discolored or "red" water. This discoloration is caused by iron stirred up in old water mains.
The Division of Water is taking measures to ensure our customers receive the best quality of water possible, by flushing mains in affected areas. Customers who experience "red" water should flush faucets until the water clears.
If you live in one of the listed areas and continue to experience discolored water, please call the Division's 24-hr Trouble Line at (216) 664-3060.
