Discolored Water in Hoboken Sunday; Safe For Drinking

Some Hobokenites were surprised on Sunday to see their water came out brown-ish from the faucets. According to water supplier United Water, the discoloring was harmless and the water was still safe to drink. 

United Water customers in Hoboken and Jersey City may have discolored water throughout Sunday. The discoloration is caused by high levels of naturally occurring minerals in the water and a buildup of harmless sediment.

Although the water is discolored, it poses no health risks and it meets safe drinking water standards. However, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking or washing clothes or dishes.

Crews are working throughout the system to flush the sediment; valves and hydrants have been opened to move the sediment out of the system quickly.

According to John Hroncich, operations manager for United Water Jersey City, company crews have been flushing the system throughout the weekend in order to help clear the discolored water from the mains. In addition, the company has increased the amount of chlorine used to treat the water and has screens in place to help remove the sediment.

Hroncich explained that the discolored water was the result of an equipment problem at the water treatment plant in Boonton. This sent a large amount of water, known as a "spike," through the aqueduct, which disturbed the sediment in the mains.

"We apologize for the inconvenience," said Hroncich. "We are working to resolve the problem as quickly as possible."

For the latest updates, Jersey City customers can visit www.unitedwater.com/uwjc or call 1-800-575-4433. Hoboken customers can visit   www.unitedwater.com/hoboken or call 1-800-422-5987.