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Water and Sewer

Water Emergencies

What is a Water Emergency?

A water emergency is any event that disrupts the normal supply of clean water to your home. Water emergencies can be caused by natural disasters or other emergencies that affect the water system:

Rusty Water

You may notice rusty-colored water when a water main breaks, hydrants are flushed, or other work has been done in the area. This can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and other mineral deposits in the water mains get stirred up.  There is no health hazard associated with discolored water.  Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry.

Simply turn on the cold water tap until the water runs clear.

Hydrant Flushing Schedule

The City of St. Charles is flushing hydrants beginning April 1 and continuing through May 3. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause water discoloration, even for homes outside the particular flushing area. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains.