Some residents in several New Jersey towns may be concerned to see water with a “pinkish hue” running from their faucets — but it’s safe to drink, officials said.
Higher levels of sodium permanganate have led to reports of discolored water in the Raritan System, according to a statement from New Jersey American Water, posted on Facebook Wednesday by the Manville Borough Office of Emergency Management.
Sodium permanganate is used to treat water at the Raritan-Millstone Water Treatment Plant, officials said.
Several municipalities, including Bound Brook, Bridgewater, Manville, Hillsborough, Somerville, Raritan Borough, Dunellen, Piscataway, and Plainfield may experience water discoloration, according to officials. In rare cases, the discoloration may appear pink.
“Though there is no impact to drinking water quality and the water meets drinking water standards, you may wish to refrain from doing laundry during this time,” officials said.
Crews have started flushing hydrants to help clear the system, which may cause low water pressure or discoloration for some customers, officials said.
The discoloration is expected to improve as the flushing continues, said Chelsea Kulp, director of communications and external affairs for New Jersey American Water.
Kulp said most customers in the impacted towns will not experience the discoloration, which was first reported in Bridgewater.
Those with discolored water are advised to run the cold water taps at the lowest levels of their home for about three to five minutes until the water runs clear.
The Raritan System serves more than 50 New Jersey municipalities, according to a 2024 report.
“We thank you for your patience and understanding while we work to resolve this issue,” officials said in the statement.
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