Victoria residents may be experiencing a temporary change in the taste and smell of their water after the City of Victoria Public Works began drawing more water from the City’s reservoirs, but the water remains safe to drink.
When the Guadalupe River falls below its normal level, the City must reduce its pumping and may need to draw water from the reservoirs to maintain its supply. The recent change in taste and smell is due to the water’s extended storage in the reservoirs combined with lower consumption compared to previous droughts, which affects how water flows through the City’s pipes.
Residents are assured that the water is completely safe to drink. All of the City’s water comes from the same source (the Guadalupe River), and the water continues to meet all applicable safety standards.
Public Works is working to adjust its treatment processes to address any taste or odor concerns. These changes will take effect gradually and are expected to be fully implemented by the end of the week.
The City of Victoria appreciates residents’ understanding and patience as we work through these temporary changes.
To learn more about the City’s drought contingency plan, visit www.victoriatx.gov/droughtplan.