MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — The city of Muskegon Heights updated the public Thursday amid a citywide boil-water advisory.
The advisory was prompted Wednesday morning after the Department of Public Works (DPW) says a “glitch” caused a widespread outage.
We’re told the at-fault issue within the supervisory and data acquisition (SCADA) was identified. The issue did not stem from construction, maintenance or an external infiltration.
"We know for sure there was no intrusion into our computer system. We know for sure it didn't leech to any of our other construction and maintenance projects going on," Interim City Manager Melvin Burns said. "So, it was still narrowed down to some type of malfunction in our computer system."
Water testing and hydrant flushing commenced Thursday morning, according to the city. It is normal to see rusty- or cloudy-looking water as flushing occurs and poses no cause for concern.
Results from the first round of water testing aren’t expected back until Friday due to the scale of flushing operations.
The boil-water advisory remains in effect.
People who live in Muskegon Heights told FOX 17 Thursday that the disruption has brought together the community.
"We're all family. That's what's important," Arlene Anthony-Hall, a volunteer, said. "They need water. They need help. That's why I'm here. It's important to me to be a part of my community."
Anthony-Hall says she got a call from the United Way asking for water distribution volunteers.
"They're thankful that we're taking our time out, being out here to do this," she added.
In the meantime, residents may pick up bottled water Thursday from 5–7 p.m. and Friday from 12–2 p.m. “at designated locations.”
Meijer says it is delivering another truckload of water to the city's farmers market.
"I think this is real nice. I'm very pleased with who is out here working and that the city is trying to do the best they can to get the help we need," Don Salis, who lives in Muskegon Heights, said.
"I'm proud of Muskegon, how they came together. It's a state of emergency, and they [were] here for us. I appreciate everything you're doing," Rolando Hall, who lives in Muskegon Heights, added.
"It's a blessing. It really is a blessing that they have come together in this needed time," Dorothy Walker, who lives in Muskegon Heights, said.
"People have been supporting people. People have been picking up water for some of their neighbors that can't get out," Burns added. "Makes you proud to be a part of this community."
Visit the city’s website for the latest updates.
Visit the CDC’s website for more on how to stay safe during a boil-water advisory.
READ MORE: Muskegon Heights issues boil water advisory for entire city
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