(Terril)—A drinking water health advisory remains in effect for the city of Terril until further notice. According to a press release, the city is experiencing high levels of manganese in their water supply, causing it to have a light pink color. This level is above the Environmental Protection Agency’s short-term health advisory of 1 mg/L (milligram per Liter). Terril Mayor Mark Lair updated residents on the issue in a video posted on Facebook.
Lair says the issue will be on the agenda for Monday night’s city council meeting.
City officials state that manganese is a naturally occurring element found in soil, water and air and is commonly found in certain foods we eat. However, too much manganese can increase the risk of health problems, particularly for infants under 6 months old. Infants are more at risk than older children and adults because their brains and bodies are quickly developing. Infants exposed to manganese over 0.3 mg/L may experience learning or behavioral problems.
Adults drinking water with high levels of manganese may experience impacts to their nervous system, resulting in behavioral changes and other nervous system effects, including slow and clumsy movements.
Again, Terril city officials are asking residents not to drink the water at this time. Bottled water is available for pick up at the Terril Fire Station.
