Residents in Sundre's northeast subdivision might have noticed their tap water coming out looking a little milky last week.
However, the municipality's operations manager told the Round Up the water remains safe to drink, and that the benign issue was suspected to have been the result of cavitations caused by adjustments to pressure levels in the new piping system installed along Centre Street North.
"There's no problem with the drinking water," said Jim Hall, adding, "There's no boil water advisory. The water is safe to drink."
Simply put, air was churned into the water flow, possibly by a valve that was slightly closed, resulting in bubbles that made the water look milky as it came out of the tap. After sitting for less than a minute, the bubbles cleared out, leaving the water crystal clear. The situation was only experienced in the far northeast subdivision in homes between 10th Avenue and 12th Avenue, he said, adding homes along 9th Avenue did not appear to be affected.
Operations staff were systematically shutting off mains to isolate and localize the source last week, he said.
"We're working on that."
Despite some residents expressing concerns and asking questions on social media, the municipality had as of last week when Hall spoke with the Round Up received only one phone call.
The operations manager urged people to refrain from directing their comments or complaints on social media, and to rather contact the town to report any potential problems. The municipality's office can be reached during office hours at 403-638-3551, while residents are also encouraged to call 403-638-7350 after hours.
