City of Elyria, OH

07/19/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/19/2024 13:48

Elyria Water Update: Friday, July 19, 2024

The City of Elyria has rescinded the Water Usage Restriction Notification, dated July 18, 2024. Non-essential water use is now allowed, including: irrigation; swimming pools; washing of buildings, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, vehicles; fountains; washing clothes; etc.

The Precautionary Boil Water Advisory (Boil Alert) remains in effect. While there is no evidence of contamination in the water system, the EPA mandates specific water analysis testing be complete before the advisory can be rescinded. Staff are expediting that process and expect to receive EPA approval by Saturday, July 20th.

Until the Precautionary Boil Advisory is lifted, please remember:

  • DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for at least one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms that could potentially be in the water.
  • Disease-causing organisms can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. If you experience one of more of these symptoms and they persist, contact your doctor. People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, and some elderly people may be at increased risk. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their healthcare providers.

The incident occurred on Thursday, July 18th when Elyria's water plant lost grid power. Backup generator power came online but was unable to rejoin the grid due to a system switch issue. Staff and crews immediately implemented contingency plans and worked through the night to rebuild the system and restore water pressure. Crews have completed EPA testing protocols and are waiting for results and approval.

Thank you to all Elyrians for sharing this information with your friends, family, and neighbors, and for your patience. Please continue to follow us on Facebook and at cityofelyria.org for the latest. For more information, please contact:

Chris Pyanowski
Elyria Safety Service Director
440-865-3796
[email protected].