Boil water notice issued in Mosier due to 'potentially harmful bacteria'

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Residents of Mosier are under a boil water notice due to the presence of "potentially harmful bacteria" in their water supply, the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday.

County officials say the onset of bacteria was caused by a loss of water pressure in the area’s water distribution system on Monday, July 22. Those impacted by the notice have already been contacted by their water service providers.

“If these bacteria are present, they could make you sick, and are a particular concern for people with weakened immune systems,” officials said. “Do not drink the water without boiling it first.”

Residents are advised to boil their water for one minute and to allow the water to cool before using it for drinking, brushing teeth, washing fruits and vegetables, preparing food and baby formula, making ice, or cleaning food contact surfaces.

“The City of Mosier will inform you when tests show no bacteria and you no longer need to boil your water,” officials said, though they did not clarify how long the boil water notice is expected to last.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.