Village officials say Cato’s water system is improving after a water main break caused a loss of pressure last week, but residents must continue boiling water while testing continues.
The original boil water order was issued Saturday after the village water system lost pressure on Jan. 9 due to a water main break, according to the Cayuga County Health Department. Officials warned that a loss of pressure can allow untreated water and harmful microbes to enter the system.
Health officials said untreated drinking water can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches, with higher risks for infants, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
Residents were instructed to bring tap water to a rolling boil for one minute before using it, or to use bottled water certified by the state. Boiled or bottled water must be used for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and preparing food.
Village leaders said the water tower has been steadily refilling thanks to widespread conservation by residents. The tower is now operational but remains at a low level.
Officials are asking residents to limit water use to essentials, such as flushing toilets, filling pet water bowls, and taking quick showers. Heavy water use, including laundry or large amounts of dishwashing, could drain the tower and force it to be shut down again for several days.
Repairs to the water system are underway. Once complete, the village will collect water samples to confirm there is no contamination.
The boil water order will remain in effect until officials receive two clean test results taken two days apart. Officials said the earliest the order could be lifted would be midweek.
Village and county officials thanked residents for their patience and cooperation, crediting the community response with preventing a more serious disruption.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].