Michigan Residents , Told to Boil Water , Amid Bacteria Concern.
'Newsweek' reports that over 150,000 Michigan residents have been told to boil tap water before consuming it after a leak in a Macomb County water mains pipe.
On August 1, the leak caused a "large drop in water pressure" and flooding in nearby roads and fields.
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The health advisory to boil water is in place for multiple Macomb County communities and one Oakland County city.
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According to the Great Lakes Water Authority, the advisory is expected to stay in effect until at least August 3.
The advisory includes any water used for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, food preparation and brushing teeth.
'Newsweek' reports that low pressure, like in Macomb, can result in bacteria contaminating the water system.
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Groundwater seeps into the water system through cracks in the pipes, which could introduce pathogens such as E.coli, streptococci and enterococci.
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'Newsweek' reports that two rounds of water quality tests are required before the advisory can be lifted.
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The soonest the boil water advisory could be lifted by GLWA is 48 hours from when the first test is taken.
, Great Lakes Water Authority, via 'Newsweek'.
GLWA will notify all impacted communities once the water is determined to be safe to drink, Great Lakes Water Authority, via 'Newsweek'
