County assures Hilo water remains safe to drink

Hilo water is safe to drink after an isolated report of discolored water on Monday.

According to Hawai‘i County’s Department of Water Supply, the use of fire hydrants on Oneawa Place, Makalani Place and Ka Manelo Street in the Haihai area caused the turbid water, which can occur when fire hydrants are accessed.

There is no indication the water system was exposed to contamination. As a precautionary measure, the county collected water samples for laboratory analysis, and initial observations confirm that the water is safe for consumption.

In an abundance of caution, the county recommends area water customers flush their taps should they experience discolored water and call DWS at 808-961-8790 to report the turbidity. If customers have water quality-related questions, call the Department’s Water Quality Branch at 808-961-8670.

If there are any updates, the Department of Water Supply will notify its customers. Updated messaging will be posted at www.hawaiidws.org and on the DWS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HawaiiDWS/. To reach the DWS during normal business hours, call 808-961-8050, for after-hour emergencies call, 808-961-8790, or email dws@hawaiidws.org.