Monroe Boil Water Alert Still In Effect

MONROE (WWJ) - A boil water advisory remains in effect for the almost 50,000 water customers in the city of Monroe, as officials try to determine what caused high levels of contaminants in several samples taken this month.

WWJ's Greg Bowman spoke with Monroe Water Director Barry Laroy who said recent drenching rains haven't helped the situation.

"The rain over the last several weeks is what likely caused the issue. We are still working diligently to locate where the source is, where this chloroform got into the system and is causing these problems," Laroy said.

Six of 72 samples drawn this month showed presence of the germs.

Laroy says Monroe residents should boil their water for at least a minute and then letting it cool before drinking, or using bottled water.  He said no untreated water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes or in food preparation until the problem is corrected.

Laroy expects the alert to be lifted by Saturday, May 28.