Customers who receive their water from the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility are currently experiencing some unusual taste and odor characteristics. Due to the low levels of the Ohio River and the extremely hot, dry weather recently, the river has higher than normal amounts of algae. When algae die, a chemical is produced that emits a taste and odor that we are not used to.
The water is safe to drink and continues to meet all state and federal guidelines for safe drinking water. Other water systems that get their water from the Ohio River are experiencing the same issues.
The Utility is treating this water with carbon to reduce the taste and odor issues, but they cannot be completely remedied. Placing an open container of water in the refrigerator for a while before drinking will help alleviate some of the foul taste and smell.
This condition will most likely continue until the area receives significant amounts of rain. While much of the state and the country deal with drought conditions, Evansville is fortunate to have the Ohio River and an abundant supply of water.
Copyright 2012 WFIE. All rights reserved.
