The Hopkinton Water Department announced Thursday morning that due to a power outage, the Ashland pump that supplies Hopkinton shut off rapidly and turned back on, causing major discoloration.
“The town is working with our engineers to figure out the solution to help permanently solve the issue in that area,” Water-Sewer Department Manager Eric Carty shared.
UPDATE: On Thursday afternoon, Carty sent another advisory. “Multiple hydrants are flushing in the area to try and clear the lines,” he wrote. “It is taking longer than normal because the power outages have been spread out. Hydrants will remain running until the water clears.”
This issue comes on the heels of last week’s problem with the Alprilla Farm wells, which were shut down to help relieve the discoloration of the water in the area.
The Water Department also announced that there will be required fire flow tests next Tuesday, Oct. 10, from approximately 8-10 a.m. Crews will be conducting the tests in the South Street and Lumber Street area. Because these tests will take place on main transmission lines, customers may notice some discoloration during and after the tests throughout town. Residents are advised to avoid doing any laundry, dishwasher loads or other water-use activities during this time. Any discoloration that may occur will eventually dissipate. Residents should check their water before using it, and may need to run the cold water line to clear internal pipes after the test is complete.
The issue of water discolouration can be the result of deterioration of old asbestos cement or transite pipes. The issue is not new, and getting worse. Does your situation involve asbestos cement water pipes? If so, I am sure the EPA is testing the water. Asbestos, is of course, regulated in American water.
https://www.nytimes.com/1986/04/13/magazine/woodstock-a-town-afraid-to-drink-water.html