Mesquite, Texas, finds itself grappling with a water supply issue as the city issues a boil water notice for customers of the Markout Water Supply system in Kaufman County.

Incident Details

The alert was prompted by an incident just before 2 p.m. Tuesday, where a utility contractor accidentally damaged a water line on FM 548 in Forney. This resulted in the system’s pressure dropping below the critical threshold of 20psi, as stated by the city in a news release. Despite this, the Markout pump station, a crucial component of the water supply infrastructure, continued to operate during the disruption.

Markout Water Supply System

Markout Water Supply serves a significant portion of the community, covering approximately 6,000 acres of south Forney and providing drinking water to nearly 1,100 residents, according to information available on the company’s website.

Boil Water Advisory

When under a boil water advisory, it’s imperative to take precautions to ensure safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises using only bottled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth. Furthermore, it’s recommended to refrain from using water from any appliances connected to the water line, such as ice and water machines in refrigerators. However, it’s deemed safe to continue with laundry activities as usual.

Restoration Efforts

Efforts are underway to restore service and pressure to the Markout system. However, the timeline for resolving the issue remains uncertain. The City will need to conduct water testing and receive clearance before lifting the advisory and alerting customers.

How to Stay Informed

Customers impacted by the advisory are urged to stay informed by contacting the City of Mesquite’s myMesquite Call Center at 972-288-7711 for more information and updates regarding the situation.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Public Safety

The incident in Mesquite underscores the critical importance of maintaining the integrity of water supply systems. While disruptions can occur unexpectedly, swift action and clear communication from local authorities are crucial in ensuring public safety and minimizing inconvenience. As efforts continue to restore normalcy to the affected areas, residents are reminded to adhere to the guidelines provided and remain vigilant until the situation is fully resolved.

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