Watermain break leads to boil water advisory

People in the West Kelowna Estates Water System will need to boil their water before consumption.

The notice, issued by the City of West Kelowna in consultation with Interior Health, came following a watermain break near the Blackwood Reservoir Monday, Dec. 5.

Residents hooked to the West Kelowna Estates Water System were put under a Water Boil Notice Monday, Dec. 5 (photo courtesy of the City of West Kelowna)

Crews are conducting repairs and area customers may experience little to no water pressure while the work is underway.

While the notice is in place, everyone in the affected area should bring their tap water to a roiling boil for a full minute before consuming; using to make or prepare food, drinks, ice or baby formula; and before brushing their teeth.

Alternatively, bottled water or water from the bulk filling station at Shannon Lake and Asquinth Roads could be used.

After the work to repair the watermain is complete area residents may experience reduced pressure, air in the lines and temporary water discolouration. Taps should be run at the coldest level for 20 minutes to clear up the issues.

The Boil Water Notice will stay in place until the water can be treated and tested to show it is safe for consumption.