Yellow, Brown Water Possible In Beachwood: Water Company

BEACHWOOD, OH — Discolored water could flow from taps in Beachwood and other east side communities on Friday.

The water is still safe to drink and meets all primary drinking water regulations, Cleveland Water said. However, higher-than-normal levels of manganese could tint the water yellow or light brown.

"If you experience discolored water, remember the water is safe to use; however, you should avoid doing laundry as staining may occur. Water may also have a slight metallic bitter taste, especially when heated," Cleveland Water said.

The manganese is the result of hypoxic Lake Erie water coming into the Nottingham Water Treatment Plant. Manganese is a mineral that naturally occurs in rocks, soils and some food, Cleveland Water said.

The Nottingham plant has adjusted its treatment process, but hypoxic water can be challenging to remedy. Crews are flushing hydrants on the east side to quicken the removal of discolored water from the system.

No boil advisory has been issued.

The following communities could see discolored water: Beachwood, Cleveland Heights, Euclid, Gates Mills, Highland Heights, Hunting Valley, Lyndhurst, Mayfield Heights, Mayfield Village, Pepper Pike, Richmond Heights and South Euclid.

The Minnesota Department of Health warns that long-term exposure to manganese can lead to health impacts. Here are some recommendations from them:

• If you're taking care of an infant who drinks tap water or formula mixed with tap water, a safe level of manganese in your water is 100 micrograms per liter of water.
• If you're caring for an infant who doesn't drink tap water or formula, a safe level of manganese is 300 micrograms per liter or less.
• If everyone in your house is older than 1 year old, a safe level of manganese is 300 micrograms per liter or less.

"Drinking water with a level of manganese above the MDH guidance level can be harmful for your health but taking a bath or a shower in it is not. Manganese in your water can stain your laundry, cause scaling on your plumbing, and make your water look, smell, or taste bad. Manganese can also create a brownish-black or black stain on your toilet, shower, bathtub, or sink," the Minnesota Department of Health said.