MLGW lifts boil water advisory
Memphis Light, Gas and Water released a statement clearing all all customers of the boild water advisory. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian file)
Memphis Light, Gas and Water lifted the boil water advisory for all customers on Thursday, Dec. 29.
MLGW customers have spent six days under a boil water advisory that left tens of thousands of customers with little to no water pressure as MLGW crews repaired at least 36 water main breaks.
For residents in north and southeast Shelby County, the advisory lasted even longer.
On Wednesday, Dec. 28, MLGW President Doug McGowen told residents to expect normal water pressure by Thursday, and he anticipated the boil water advisory would end soon after, pending normal results on water samples.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation assured MLGW that its samples met all state and federal water quality standards.
McGowen warned customers that the advisory could be lifted in phases, but Thursday’s announcement cleared all customers at once, although some customers — particularly in northern Shelby County — are still waiting for fully-restored water pressure.
MLGW advises customers to turn on their main water valve if it’s been closed and flush all faucets for at least two minutes, beginning with the faucets on the highest floor.
Customers should discard any ice made during the boil water advisory and check their water filters, MLGW said. If a customer’s water is discolored, MLGW advises them to flush the pipes by running water until it’s clear.
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MLGW boil water advisoryKeely Brewer
Keely Brewer is a Report for America corps member covering environmental impacts on communities of color in Memphis. She is working in partnership with the Ag & Water Desk, a sustainable reporting network aimed at telling water and agriculture stories across the Mississippi River Basin.
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Opinion: MLGW must communicate better
“Infrastructure issues in Memphis are a big, expensive problem. However, even though it’s just a band-aid, developing a more effective communication system is a small step that MLGW can take to ensure customers are informed and safe.”
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