Sediment Tints West Raleigh Water
July 6, 1996, 9:45 a.m.EDT
West Raleigh residents found their water was far from crystal clear Friday. Sediment from pipes had entered the water supply, tinting it a brownish color. Officials said it posed no health risk, but advised against doing laundry.
Utilities managers said a loose valve caused a change in pipe pressure, which stirred up sediment stuck to the pipe walls. It mixed in with the water and landed early Friday morning in area drinking glasses and coffee pots. Most seriously affected were bars and restaurants.
The problem was discovered Thursday night, and workers began to clear the situation through the night, but residents still found the telltale brown color in their water.
The situation is expected to be resolved by Saturday morning