North Idaho Times

Since a rupture occurred at a city-owned reservoir, and therefore a boil water order was instated on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, significant strides have been made in efforts to lift the current boil water order in place and address the damages to the reservoir. 

The City of Lewiston Public Works Department is committed to restoring regular service to water customers as soon as possible. One item that stands in the way of restoring regular service is the isolation of the affected reservoir. In order to isolate the reservoir, the reservoir must be emptied. To accomplish this, crews must pump the remaining water out of the reservoir and allow it to go through existing storm drain facilities. This process is planned to begin at 8:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 25, 2023, and water may be seen in the stormwater drainage system but should not be cause for concern. The amount of water flow will be released at a manageable rate. This step is necessary in the process to remedy the current situation. 

In addition to draining the reservoir, crews will also be working to bring modifications to the water system online. These modifications are necessary to bring alternative water sources to the area impacted by the loss of the reservoir. Therefore, customers may notice some discoloration in their tap water. This is normal and should not be cause for concern. 

If water customers notice any adverse effects from the pumping of the reservoir, outside of normal draining into the storm drainage system and discolored water as described above, please call the Public Works Department at 208-746-1316 extension 0. 

Original source can be found here.