Residents and businesses in Punta Gorda are waking up to a boil water notice impacting the entire city and all city utility customers.
Officials issued the precautionary notice following recent cold weather that led to water main breaks and leaks.
Increased water demand has also contributed to low water pressure throughout the area.
Anyone in the affected area must boil their water for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking or brushing their teeth.
Bottled water is also recommended as an alternative. The city has not yet provided an estimated timeline for when the notice will be lifted.
In addition to boiling water, residents are urged to conserve water as the region enters the dry season.
Officials say they are working on long-term improvements to the water system, but for now, precautionary measures are necessary to ensure public health and safety.
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