Boil water alert for Claiborne County affects nearly 3,000 residents

The Mississippi State Department of Health has issued a boil water notice affecting nearly 3,000 residents in Claiborne County.

The Pattison Water Association said its system lost pressure Thursday due to a power outage caused by yesterday’s storms. The precautionary boil water alert affects approximately 2,993 customers.

When a distribution system loses pressure, contaminants can siphon back into the water. Public health officials consider any system that loses pressure contaminated until tests prove otherwise. 

The MSDH recommends boiling water for one minute or using bottled water for washing fruits and vegetables, dish washing, drinking and brushing teeth. It is safe to shower, bathe and wash your hand as usual if no water is swallowed.

Visit the MSDH website for a complete checklist.