UPDATE: City of Atkins boil order lifted, work on water main break complete
UPDATE: 2/17/2025
ATKINS, Iowa — A drinking water advisory for the City of Atkins has been lifted and the city reports it's no longer necessary for residents to boil their water.
A press release sent on behalf of the City of Atkins Water Supply Monday said the city is pleased to report the work is complete and water samples are satisfactory and contain no bacteria.
We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience. The health and safety of the public is our primary focus.
If you have any comments or questions, you can contact the City Hall office at (319) 446-7870.
ORIGINAL: 2/15/2025
The City of Atkins Water Supply has issued a boil water advisory for all residents following a water main break that led to a loss of pressure in the distribution system on Saturday.
Officials recommend that residents boil water before using it for drinking, cooking, or other consumption, or use bottled water. The advisory is expected to remain in place for at least 48 hours while bacterial testing is conducted.
City officials confirmed that the water main break could not be isolated to a small area, leading to a system-wide pressure drop.
The potential for bacterial contamination has prompted the precautionary measure until water quality tests confirm the supply's safety.
Residents are advised to monitor the city’s website for official updates.
Safety Recommendations
Water System Recovery Process
Following the completion of necessary repairs, the system has been re-pressurized, and water samples are being collected for bacterial testing.
The advisory will remain in effect until two consecutive samples confirm that the water is safe.
This process is expected to take a minimum of 48 hours.
When water service is restored, residents may experience air pockets in their plumbing or discolored water.
To clear the system, officials recommend running water from a faucet without an aerator, such as a bathtub or outdoor hose bib, until the water runs clear.
EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791
The City of Atkins is working closely with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to resolve the issue and ensure the water supply meets safety standards.
Residents will be notified when the advisory is lifted and normal water use can resume.