MATTOON, IL (Chambana Today) – The City of Mattoon has lifted its “do not drink” advisory following updated water sample results from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). City officials announced Sunday that tests showed levels of an algal bloom neurotoxin have dropped below the threshold considered unsafe for consumption.
Water samples collected Saturday morning indicated a toxin level of 0.252 parts per billion—safely under the IEPA’s advisory limit of 0.3 parts per billion. Just a day earlier, the toxin was measured at 0.314 parts per billion, down from a previous high of 0.35.
In response to the improving conditions, the City completed a full flush of the municipal water system and coordinated with the IEPA to ensure public safety. However, residents are urged to take a few precautions before using their tap water again.
Community members should:
- Flush all cold-water lines for 5–10 minutes
- Discard all ice and replace water filters
- Flush hot water lines separately for 5–10 minutes
City officials thanked the public for their patience and said continued monitoring will ensure the water remains safe moving forward.