(BIVN) – The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply issued a rare Water Discoloration Notice on Friday, after reports of discolored water in the Kaieie-area of Pāpa‘ikou.
Water officials say they are investigating the cause of the discolored water. In the meantime, if customers experience discolored water at their tap, water officials say they should flush the taps until the water is clear.
If the water does not clear after flushing, the department says “please report it so crews can flush water mains in your area.” Customers can call DWS’ Water Quality Assurance and Control Branch at (808) 961-8670 or Hilo Operations Baseyard at (808) 961-8790 or email dws@hawaiidws.org.
“Recent routine water quality samples from DWS’ Pāpa‘ikou water system have been normal and there is no reason to believe the water is contaminated,” water officials stated. “However, DWS will continue to investigate and follow-up with additional water quality testing.”
The water department says it is flushing the water system, and hauling water to Kaieie tank.
A potable water tanker for the community’s use has been stationed at the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Mill Road across from Kimura General store.
What to Do If You Experience Discolored Water at your tap:
- Run Cold Water: Run your cold water tap (at the lowest point in your home, like a bathtub) for 5–10 minutes until it runs clear.
- Do Not Use Hot Water: Avoid hot water taps to keep sediment out of your water heater.
- Wait and Retry: If it does not clear, wait 1–2 hours and try again.
- Avoid Laundry: Do not wash light-colored clothes to avoid staining.
