JERSEY CITY, N.J. (WCBS 880) — Residents in two New Jersey cities are being told to boil their water after heavy rain and flooding from Ida damaged the aqueduct in Cedar Grove Township.
SUEZ said Thursday the boil water advisory is in effect for Hoboken and Jersey City residents “until further notice” and customers will be notified when the order is lifted.
The utility reminded customers in the two cities that they should be boiling water before using it for drinking or cooking purposes.
“Customers, even if their water is filtered at home, must boil their water for one minute and allow it to cool for the following uses: drinking, cooking, baking, washing dishes, making ice cubes, taking medication, brushing teeth, washing food, mixing baby formula, mixing juices or drinks, feeding pets or other consumption,” the company said in a press release.
Water does not have to be boiled before showering or washing clothing.
According to SUEZ, the water can contain “harmful microbes” that could cause illness and poses a significant risk to infants, some elderly residents and those who are immunocompromised.
Repairs to the aqueduct were completed Thursday, but the boil water advisory was not lifted.
“SUEZ crews are flushing the system in both Jersey City and Hoboken to remove high turbidity out of the system,” the company said.
SUEZ noted it will collect samples from the reservoir and monitor water quality in the distribution system.
Residents can also pick up free packages of water bottles while the boil water order is in effect.