MONTREAL — The City of Montreal has issued its largest boil-water advisory following a routine check at the largest water filtration plant Wednesday. The advisory has forced schools to tape their water fountains shut and cafés and restaurants to boil water.
“For a reason we’re not aware, the water went down at least 30 feet [10 metres],” said Chantal Morissette, head of Montreal’s water supply department as quoted by Montreal Gazette.
“It was almost emptied. This stirred up particles that were deposited at the bottom of the reservoir.”
According to the Gazette, the problem originated at Montreal’s 95-year-old Atwater filtration plant where extensive renovations and upgrades were underway for the last four years. During upgrades, the water level was routinely lowered in the basin that supplies water to the city. When the levels were increased the officials discovered sediment in the water.
The city is expected to update Montrealers on the state of drinking water this evening. Until further notice, residents and foodservice establishments are advised to run taps until the water runs clear and then boil their drinking water for at least one minute.
Keep Reading
NRA Show 2013 Was An Upbeat Affair
