For Immediate Release:
August 31, 2022
(Jackson, Miss.) – The O.B. Curtis Water Plant experienced some challenges with water chemistry again early this morning which has resulted in the depletion of the surface water tanks. The overall water pressure has decreased to 40 PSI (pounds per square inch). At this level most surface water customers will have low to no pressure.
We were at 80 PSI yesterday morning. Ideally, we want to be closer to 87 PSI to ensure proper water pressure on the City’s surface system.
Plant operators are working quickly to make adjustments. We have received a temporary raw water pump at O.B. Curtis. This will increase the processing ability by 5 MGD (million gallons per day). A team installed the pump this morning and it is now in service. The conventional side of the plant is now back in production and we expect pressure to start increasing by this evening.
The JH Fewell Water Plant is running at normal capacity at this time. There was a pump repair occurring there this morning that will allow the plant to increase output. This repair is expected to be complete today. The well system tanks are stable after their recovery yesterday.
We did have to release a batch of partially treated water. This was done in compliance with EPA and Department of Health officials.
There are some challenges to navigate over the next 48 hours as the intake water source changes chemistry again. We are monitoring and are prepared to adjust treatment as needed.
We advise residents that we remain under a boil water notice.
The City will continue to provide updates to residents and the media.