Residents in southeast London may notice a slight odour and discolouration in their water

Properties in southeast London may experience a slight odour and discolouration in their tap water beginning today.

The City assures residents that the water continues to be safe and meets all health standards. Although this does not represent a health concern, residents in the area may wish to avoid washing laundry if they experience this discolouration.

The Great Lakes undergo seasonal cycles of water layering and mixing caused by changes in temperature and available sunlight. Parts of Lake Erie have recently undergone an “inversion”, which has mixed different layers of water together and created challenges for the water treatment process.

London receives water from both Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Only the water from the Lake Erie supply has been affected.

The water is currently returning to normal at the Lake Erie water treatment plant, but it is anticipated that properties in southeast London (which is generally the area south of Commissioners Road and east of Wonderland Road, though exceptions may occur) may experience temporary water discolouration for the remainder of this week.

Anyone experiencing odour or discolouration in their tap water after September 20 should call the City’s Water Operations at 519-661-4739 or report the issue online.

Last modified:Monday, September 13, 2021