FLINT, MI – Following recent extreme temperatures the City of Flint has experienced water main breaks which have impacted water storage supply in the Cedar Reservoir and the elevated water tower. To help restore water supply levels City officials are asking residents, business owners and visitors to conserve water usage through Wednesday, March 16, 2022. No boil water advisory has been issued.
Extreme weather changes can often place a strain on the City’s underground water pipelines causing them to expand and contract to the point of breaking. When the pipelines break, water usage tends to increase, causing a reduction in the City’s stored water supply.
On average, the City of Flint uses 9.6 to 10 million gallons of water per day. Following water main breaks that have occurred since early January 2022, average water usage has increased to more than 11 million gallons per day.
As the City works to complete construction of an additional backup water storage system, the Dort Reservoir and Pumping Station in late 2022, only one water storage system is in operation and includes the Cedar Reservoir and Pumping Station along with the elevated water tower.
Below are examples of simple ways to help reduce water usage:
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
• Turn off the water while shaving.
• Take shorter showers. A typical shower uses five to ten gallons of water per minute.
• Take baths. A partially filled tub uses less water than even the shortest shower.
• Refrain from using the toilet for anything other than intended use. Every flush averages five to seven gallons of water.
• Use an automatic dishwasher (or washing machine) for full loads only. Each load uses at least 25 gallons of water per cycle.
• If washing dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running for rinsing.
• Refrain from running the water to clean vegetables. Instead, rinse them in a bowl or sink of clean water.
Additional updates on the City’s water storage usage will be shared with residents as more information becomes available.
• For water emergencies, questions, or concerns with water service call (810) 766-7202 [water] and (810) 766-7079 [sewer]. These lines are monitored 24/7.
• For non-emergency questions or concerns email [email protected]. This email is monitored by DPW department staff.
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