Soap Lake chlorinating water as precautionary measure

SOAP LAKE — The City of Soap Lake has announced that it will implement a temporary chlorination process for its drinking water supply after routine monitoring detected the presence of coliform bacteria in the city’s reservoirs. This emergency disinfection is scheduled to begin Friday, and aims to ensure the continued safety of the water for residents.  

“We’re doing our yearly inspection, and it showed a sign of coliform bacteria,” Mayor Peter Sharp said. “This is standard procedure to ensure public health and safety.”  

The specific area affected by the contamination is the Distribution Center from the West reservoir. 

The chlorination could result in temporary changes to water appearance, possibly causing it to appear black or reddish-brown due to reactions with iron and manganese in the water mains, according to a statement from the city. Residents are advised to run tap water for a few minutes before consumption to flush any discolored water that might result from the chlorination process.  

“It’s a precautionary step,” Sharp said. “Most of the homes in Soap Lake have new plumbing, but if someone has old metal lines, it could be an issue. It’s always good to run the water before using it, especially if it’s been sitting for a while.” 

Coliform bacteria is a general term for a family of bacteria that includes E. Coli and others that can cause gastric distress, according to the Washington State Department of Health. However, risks in Soap Lake are considered low. 

Despite the detection of bacteria, Sharp reassured residents that no immediate health risks are anticipated.  

“While some people may have sensitivities to chlorine, the levels we are using are very low, and there is no need to boil your water,” Sharp said.  

Residents with health concerns related to chlorine are encouraged to seek alternative sources of water during this period, according to a statement from the city.  

“This is a one-time deal. We are not continuing to chlorinate after this,” Sharp said. “This is only to clean our system. Our city does not chlorinate on a regular basis because our system does not require it.”  

The city’s public works department will conduct a thorough flushing of the water system using fire hydrants in conjunction with the chlorination, Sharp said.  

“This coincides perfectly with our routine flushing,” Sharp said. “We want to be transparent with our residents, and we’ve posted notices at every home, business, and hotel room to keep everyone informed.” 

Residents are urged to contact the city’s Public Works Director at 509-760-3738 for further information.  

The chlorination is expected to end by Monday, allowing residents to resume normal use of tap water shortly thereafter. The city remains committed to providing safe drinking water to the community amid this precautionary measure, Sharp said.