The city of Alpine issued a temporary boil-water notice Monday after a significant water leak near West Highway 90 caused an isolated loss of pressure at a ground storage tank.
City officials said crews were working to repair the leak and restore normal water pressure. Although the pressure loss was limited to the affected portion of the system, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requires customers to boil water as a precaution until testing confirms it is safe for consumption.
Residents should bring water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or washing food to a vigorous rolling boil for at least two minutes and allow it to cool before use. Bottled water can be used instead.
Water does not need to be boiled for bathing, showering, laundry or watering plants, according to the city. Residents should avoid swallowing water while bathing or showering. Dishes may be washed in a dishwasher using a sanitizing cycle.
Once repairs are completed, crews will flush the affected portion of the water system and collect bacteriological samples as required by TCEQ.
The boil-water notice will remain in effect until laboratory testing confirms the water is safe to consume. The city said it will notify residents when the notice is lifted.
The notice comes as Alpine has recently dealt with broader problems involving its municipal water system, including a Stage 4 water emergency announced in late July following a critical well failure.
