Officials in an Iowa city recently advised residents not to consume pink-colored water due to high levels of potassium permanganate, which contaminated the system after an issue with the city’s water pumps. In addition to the unusual coloring, residents are also dealing with a metallic taste and other instances of discoloration caused by elevated amounts of hazardous elements in their water supply.
The pink water problem began overnight on September 8 when two out of four wells failed to properly reset, according to city officials. Initially, officials assured residents that the water was safe to drink and use. However, they later retracted this statement, issuing a “DO NOT DRINK THE WATER” advisory due to high manganese levels in the system. Manganese is a naturally occurring element that can increase the risk of health problems if consumed in large amounts, especially for infants who may experience learning or behavioral issues as a result.
Residents have been offered free bottled water by the city, but tensions are growing between residents and city officials as many feel their concerns are not being addressed. Kara Robinson, a local resident, told KETV that the water tastes like “drinking straight pennies” and that her children don’t even want to use ice made from it due to its unpleasant taste.
City officials announced on Friday that the drinking water in Shelby had been cleared and deemed safe for consumption and all other uses, but residents remain skeptical and frustrated with the situation. Many feel their voices are not being heard by the city council, leading to a strained relationship between citizens and local authorities.
