West Linn issues boil water advisory after equipment failure

WEST LINN, Ore. (KATU) — An equipment failure has prompted a boil water advisory for residents in West Linn’s Rosemont Water Pressure Zone, the city said in a press release.

The advisory was issued after a communication system failed to alert crews about low water levels in the Rosemont Reservoir, leading to a potential loss of water pressure.

The City of West Linn has advised residents to boil water as a precautionary measure, as crews cannot confirm that system pressure was maintained above the threshold required to ensure safe drinking water.

The state mandates that a notice be issued when water pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch (PSI), as harmful bacteria could be present following a pressure loss.

Residents and businesses in the affected area are urged to disinfect water used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and other activities by boiling it vigorously for two minutes, using unscented liquid chlorine bleach, or purification tablets. Bottled water is also recommended.

Water does not need to be disinfected for bathing, showering, or laundry, and dishes can be washed with hot water. For more information and to check if your area is affected, visit the public alerts website.