City officials can't explain Winnipeg's brown water

Brown water is coming out of taps across Winnipeg, and city officials are still unable to explain why its happening.

Bob Borsa lives in Transcona in a brand new home but hasnt been able to use his tub since he moved in because the tap is running coffee-coloured water.

"This was [my wifes] dream bathroom. We spent a fair bit of money putting this bathroom in, and shes not been able to use it," said Borsa.

Borsa isnt the only one affected. Residents all over the city are making calls to 311 to complain about brown water showing up in their sinks, tubs and toilets.

City officials maintain the water is safe, but Borsa isnt so sure.

"You dont know. You just dont know right? Is it something in the water that can affect your health immediately or long term?" he said.

Borsa demanded the city test his water. He said city officials complied and told him the water is safe because it has acceptable chlorine levels, but tests for bacteria and metal havent come back yet.

"I wouldnt drink this water, would you?" said Borsa, holding up a cup of murky water.

Tim Shanks is Winnipegs water distribution engineer. He said the water is safe for everyone to use.

"I appreciate our customers frustration and appreciate their patience with us, but we have to reassure them that the water is safe," he said.

But, he added, its not recommended to use it to prepare food or beverages.

Discoloured water is often caused by a change in the flow of water, which can release more sediment from the pipes into the water supply. And this summer's dry conditions have meant more people are using water.

But Shanks couldnt say for certain why the problem is so widespread.

"Were looking into things like water chemistry or operational changes," he said.

Last year,the city hired an external consultant to look at the issue, but it hasnt yet been solved.

City officials are advising residents to run cold water for 10 minutes until it becomes clear but that will cost about 25 cents each time. And city officials said it wont reimburse people on their water bills because the water can still be used for watering plants or the lawn.