NORRISTOWN – A boil water notice was issued early Tuesday morning for more than 1,600 Pennsylvania American Water customers residing in parts of Norristown and Plymouth Township.
A company spokesperson said Tuesday an “equipment failure” led to a “loss of positive pressure in the distribution system.” The alert remains in effect until further notice.
“A loss of positive water pressure is a signal of the existence of conditions that could allow contamination to enter the distribution system through backflow by back pressure or back siphonage,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
Pennsylvania American Water issues a boil water notice for parts of Norristown and Plymouth Township Tuesday morning. (Screenshot courtesy Pennsylvania American Water)
A company spokesperson noted that “inadequately treated water could contain organisms such as bacteria, parasites and viruses, potentially causing those who drink it various symptoms, inlcuding cramps, diarrhea, headaches, and nausea.
Area residents should heat water until it reaches a rolling boil for at least one minute and then cool before use. Boiled or bottled water should be used for brushing teeth, drinking, food preparation, making ice, and washing dishes while the advisory remains in effect.
While repairs were completed and pressure was restored, a Pennsylvania American Water spokesperson clarified that officials were still conducting water quality testing as of Tuesday morning. It’s unclear when the advisory will be lifted, but officials said they plan to send a notice when it’s no longer necessary for area residents to boil their water.
Call 1-800-565-7292 or visit pennsylvaniaamwater.com for more information.