The Johnson County city of Keene has been without drinkable water since Friday due to problems caused by last week's winter storm.
According to city officials, a myriad of weather-related issues caused the city’s water supply to become limited. Among the contributing problems were issues with pumps due to the widespread power outage.
“Without that electricity, pumps couldn’t pump the water and because of that during that time a lot of pipes and pumps and valves froze,” Keene Emergency Management Coordinator Dan Warner said.
Warner said the water supply should be fully restored by Tuesday afternoon and safe to drink by the end of the week. A boil water notice will remain in effect until further notice, the city said.
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In a news release, the city says as water begins to flow, residents may notice air in the lines. That is normal and can be expected.
"As the water stays on, please check to make sure that your pipes do not have any leaks," the release said. "If you are experiencing a leak and need your water shut off, call our Public Works on-call number: 817-240-2995."
“It has been a real challenge for us, but what I love about our students is they are flexible and service-oriented,” said Dr. Ken Shaw, President of Southwestern Adventist University in Keene.
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Shaw said about 300 on-campus students have taken the outage in stride, with some assisting in the distribution of bottled water to residents.
Bottled water is available, while supplies last, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Keene Fire Department, located at 201 West Hillcrest Street.
If you are a resident with disabilities, have a neighbor with a disability, or you know someone that has a disability and is unable to come by for water, please call 817-641-3336 to request water delivery, the city asked.
