Ames Water Main Break Delays Surgery

A water main break at did more than turn some water taps rusty Tuesday. The break also suspended about two dozen surgical procedures at the hospital.

The water main break flooded a sterile instrument storage area, the Des Moines Register reported, so some surgeries will be delayed until at least Friday. Patients who couldn't wait or can't wait would be transfered.

No one was sure why the break occurred. at the hospital is ongoing, but no one was working in that area at the time of the break late Monday.

Everything should be back to normal by next week.

On Tuesday, the , advised residents against using their hot water if it was rusty. The break affected water pressure at homes as far as a mile from the hospital, the release said.

Using hot water could draw rust into water heaters and discolor clothing.

If discolored water causes staining problems with clothing, rust remover is available free of charge at the information desk, the , all fire stations, or by calling (515) 239-5550 during business hours, or (515) 239-5150 after 3 p.m.