After a water main break causing pressure loss to the city water supply on Thursday, KNSS News received this notice from the City of Wichita:
"Staff is working with the KDHE. We expect to get back water testing results Saturday morning. KDHE will then advise whether the boil advisory can be lifted or will remain in effect at that time. Ensuring that no bacteria is present and our water is safe for the community is our top priority, and we will continue to update as we learn more."
Because of the loss of pressure, drinking water may not be properly treated, allowing bacteria, viruses, and parasites to infiltrate the system. Diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches can all occur if you drink contaminated water.
The City closed valves around the broken line on Thursday evening and began the process of identifying and repairing a broken 42-inch main line. City Manager Robert Layton that the city is sampling the water but won't have results until later.
Why does it take until Saturday before we know if our city water is safe?
The City must repair the primary cause, flush and disinfect locations of concern, measure chlorine residuals throughout the distribution system, and collect biological samples to be examined before the Kansas Department of Health and Environment lifts the advisory.
Those samples must be sent to a KDHE-approved laboratory. According to the state office, results will be available in about 24 hours. If the bacteria samples come back negative, the boil-water advisory will be lifted, indicating that the water is safe to consume without boiling. If the samples come back positive for bacteria, the city will have to restart the process.
Stay with KNSS and knssradio.com as we will have updates.