Water line break update: Repairs complete, boil water notice for Odessa now in place

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The city released new information on the water outage that resulted in the city’s loss of water after the supply was shut off to aid in the repair of a line.

According to the city, the line was repaired and crews are now out of the hole. Officials said that the water systems will be turned back on slowly and that once it is back on, a boil water notice will be in effect.

Odessa city officials stated that the water samples will be taken on Sunday morning, where it will then take 24 to 36 hours before there is a chance to be given the “all clear.”

The city also released a list of frequently asked questions about boil notices that can be found below:

What about brushing your teeth?

Use bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth.

How long should water be boiled?

Vigorous boiling for at least one full minute is the safest and most effective method of disinfection.

What if I accidentally drank tap water before I learned about the Precautionary Boil Water Notice?

If this happens, don’t panic. The chances of becoming sick are slim. See your doctor if you experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps.

How does boiling water make it safe to drink?

Boiling water purifies it because disease-causing bacteria, viruses or parasites will be destroyed by the heat.

Can I take a shower?

Yes. Just be careful not to drink the water while you shower or bath.

Can I use my ice maker during the notice?

Ice already in the freezer when the water pressure drops and before the Precautionary Boil Water Notice is issued is safe. When the notice is issued, turn off your ice maker. Any ice made during the notice should also be disposed of. Allow your icemaker to make three batches of ice and then discard that ice.

Can I use tap water for making coffee, tea, lemonade, baby formula, frozen juice, or other beverages?

No. Water intended for drinking must be boiled before using it to make beverages or use bottled water.

Can I wash food with tap water?

Fruits, vegetables, and other foods should be washed with bottled or boiled water only.

What about washing dishes?

Hand-washing dishes: Wash with hot soapy water, then use boiled water to rinse.

Dishwasher: If the hot water reaches at least 170 degrees or the dishwasher has a sanitizing cycle and includes a full dry cycle, this will be sufficient.

Can I wash my hands in tap water during the notice period?

Use tap water and soap for hand washing and basic hygiene, but if you are washing your hands to prepare food, use bottled or bo

Updates regarding this situation will be provided when they are made available.

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