Bottled water is being distributed to the community in Williams Bay in Walworth County following a contamination of the village’s water system.
Officials issued a news release Aug. 28 announcing times for the distribution. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued a “Do Not Drink” order due to high nitrite levels, according to the release.
The village of Williams Bay was informed of the issue on Aug. 25 and in response ordered water tests, the release said. The lab results of the water samples came back Aug. 27 confirming nitrite levels within the water system.
The village board held an emergency meeting Aug. 27 and unanimously authorized $100,000 to provide bottled drinking water for all residents while the order is in effect.
The village will need to temporarily increase chlorine levels at the water plant and flush the distribution system to eliminate the nitrite.
In 2021, the DNR informed the village that the water system ammonia levels were trending upward, which can result in elevated nitrite levels. The village developed a solution, which is under construction and anticipated to be completed in November.
Infants and women who are pregnant are at risk. High levels of nitrite can cause methemoglobinemia, or blue baby syndrome, birth defects, and increase the risk of some cancers. Those who develop severe symptoms are urged to seek medical care.
How to receive bottled water in Williams Bay
The DNR says if you rely on the Williams Bay water system, do not drink it.
Bottle water distribution is happening 3 to 7 p.m. Aug. 28 to Sept. 1. Beginning Sept. 4, bottle distribution will be from 4 to 7 p.m. moving forward.
Water distribution will take place at Williams Bay School District. Residents should enter from Theater Road and proceed toward the weight room entrance.
Refer to the school map for detailed driving directions.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Williams Bay, Wisconsin, residents told ‘do not drink’ water after high nitrite levels
Reporting by Drake Bentley, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
