The City of Somerville’s annual Water System Flushing Program is set to begin Monday, May 8, and continue through late October. This annual program flushes pipes at high velocities to clean water mains and maintain the highest possible water quality.

Flushing will take place Mondays and Thursdays between 6 p.m. and midnight to minimize potential disruptions to water service. In most cases, residents will not notice any changes to their water service. However, some homes may experience a temporary, slight drop in water pressure and/or discolored water. In these cases, though the water may be discolored, it is safe to drink. Until the water runs clear, it is advisable to avoid washing laundry, especially white fabrics. If any rust stains appear on wet laundry, it should not be dried in a dryer machine, and residents can call 311 (or 617-666-3311 from cell phones or outside the city) for a free bottle of rust remover.

Residents will be notified via signage when their neighborhood will be affected by the Flushing Program. For more information, please contact the Water Department at water@somervillema.gov or 617-625-6600 ext. 5850.