Pink Tap Water Unnerves St. Michael Residents
ST. MICHAEL, Minn. (WCCO) -- Residents expecting crystal clear water to come from their taps were concerned when they instead saw a pink liquid flowing into their sink basins.
The Joint Powers Water Board, which services Albertville, Hanover and St. Michael, said a pump feeding potassium permanganate into the water supply added too much of the oxidizing compound into the supply.
Authorities reportedly assured residents of St. Michael, Hanover and Albertville that, despite the bold color, the additive that was in the water was not toxic.
The pump has since been fixed, according to the water board. The board also said the water remains safe to drink.
They recommended anyone who still sees discoloration in their water supply run the taps until the water runs clear again.
A viewer sent WCCO a picture of the water Monday morning, noting: "Thought I might have to call Ghost Busters."
The St. Michael Patch reported that some residents saw magenta or purple hues in their water.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, this week marks "Safe Drinking Water Week" in Minnesota.
