'Microbial Contamination' In Norristown Area Water Sparks Boil Warning

NORRISTOWN, PA — A boil water warning has been issued in Norristown due to a potential for "microbial contamination," Pennsylvania American Water announced Friday.

The possible contamination is due to a water main break in Norristown on Thursday night. About 11,000 customers in parts of East Norriton, Whitpain, and Plymouth townships, and a portion of Norristown are impacted. A map of the area is included below:

"A loss of positive water pressure is a signal of the existence of conditions that could allow contamination to enter the distribution system through back-flow by back pressure or back siphonage," officials said.

Possible microbial contamination could lead to disease-causing organisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which could cause nausea, cramps, diarrhea, headaches, and more, officials said.

All water should be boiled before drinking, making ice or food, washing dishes, or brushing teeth.

Water tankers are also available for residents to take away water for free at three locations:

• Home Goods, 1301 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell
• East Norriton Township Police Department, 2501 Stanbridge Street, Norristown
• Norriton Fire Engine Company, 656 W. Germantown Pike, Norristown

Residents should bring their own containers.

Officials are continuing to work on the issue that led to the risk of contamination.