Second 'Do Not Drink' order lifted in Mattoon

MATTOON, Ill. (WAND) - The City of Mattoon announced Friday afternoon that the second "Do Not Drink" order issued in a week has been lifted.

Mattoon reissued the order July 15 after an increase in harmful algal bloom neurological toxins were found in the drinking water.

Water samples collected Friday showed the toxins at .10 ppb, which is considered non-detect under the EPA recommended advisory levels of .30 ppb.

Given there were three consecutive testing days under the EPA's advisory levels, the city was able to lift the order. 

The City of Mattoon said in a press release that residents can resume using the tap water for all uses. They must flush all cold water lines for 5-10 minutes and flush hot water lines separately for 5-10 minutes.

The release also said the IEPA recommends discarding all ice and replacing ice filters. 

Water distribution will remain open at Lytle Park and Arland D. Williams Elementary School from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.

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