Boil Water Advisory Lifted for Northeast Neighborhoods After Water Tests Show Safety

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for several northeast Hutchinson neighborhoods, city officials announced Friday.

The advisory, issued Sept. 17, affected residents in the High Pressure Zone who were told to boil water before consumption due to a water line break that caused pressure loss.

Laboratory testing results now show the water is safe to drink, and residents no longer need to boil water before use, according to a city news release.

"The City of Hutchinson appreciates the community's patience and cooperation while the required testing was completed to ensure the safety of the public water supply," city officials said in the announcement.

The affected neighborhoods included Quivira, Quail Ridge, Panorama, Lakeview, Hillcrest, Woodlands and Sundale, though Prairie Hills Middle School was not impacted by the advisory.

Kansas regulations require water suppliers to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown that could affect water quality. The state health department announces boil water advisories when necessary, and suppliers must collect water samples to confirm safety before the advisory can be lifted.

City officials said drinking water samples collected from Hutchinson showed no evidence of bacteriological contamination or other conditions that would put the water system at risk of contamination.

Residents with questions about the water system can contact the city at 620-694-2505 or visit the city's website for more information.

The advisory was issued for the northeast area of Hutchinson in Reno County after the water line break resulted in a brief loss of pressure to the High Pressure Zone distribution system.