Several water problems plague Cairo community

November 14, 2018

CAIRO, Ga. (WCTV) -- Wednesday morning, a water main break in Cairo forced schools and restaurants to close for the day.

The city says the water should be back on by the end of the day, and that the break might help flush out another water issue in the community.

Many residents are describing their tap water as yellow. Some say they noticed it after Hurricane Michael and have refused to use it ever since.

For the last several weeks, many are using bottled water for drinking and cooking.

Resident Laesha Evers says the water has caused her family stomach pain, nausea and skin rashes.

"My concern is for them to get to the bottom of this. Not just for my kids' safety, but for all the kids," said Evers.

City leaders say an environmental specialist tested the water a week after the storm. They found high levels of iron, which is causing the discoloration.

The city is still looking for the origin of what's causing it and says it could be old cast iron pipes.

"The water was reported to be clean and safe to drink, however, the color of it just made people a little uneasy about the situation," the city said.

Some residents are still upset and skeptical. They say they're waiting for a public announcement or letter to explain.

The mayor says they're looking to set up an automated phone system that can provide more information. For now, people can call the offices of the mayor or utilities department to report an issue.

Due to Wednesday's water break, they've issued a 24-hour citywide boil water advisory.

City leaders say they don't know when the discoloration problem will be resolved.