Residents of Shelby, Iowa, have been dealing with a troubling issue: their tap water has turned a vivid pink. Local officials have traced the problem to an excess of potassium permanganate, a chemical used in water treatment, that contaminated the city’s water supply. This issue began on September 8 when two out of the city’s four wells malfunctioned, leading to the problematic tint.

Residents are experiencing more than just a color change. The water has been described as having a metallic taste, with some likening it to “drinking straight pennies,” according to local resident Kara Robinson. The problems extend beyond just the pink hue; there have been reports of brown water as well, caused by high levels of manganese. This naturally occurring element, when present in excessive amounts, can pose health risks, particularly for infants.

Initially, city officials assured residents that the water was “safe to drink and use.” However, they reversed this stance two days later, issuing a “do not drink the water” advisory due to the elevated manganese levels. Exposure to high levels of manganese can lead to learning and behavioral issues in children, raising serious concerns among the local population.

In response to the crisis, Shelby officials have provided free bottled water to affected residents. Despite this, tensions have risen between the community and city leaders. Residents like Robinson feel their concerns are being ignored and that their voices are not being heard. The city council has been criticized for their handling of the situation and the initial misinformation regarding the safety of the water.

By September 15, city officials announced that the water supply had been cleared and deemed safe for consumption. Nevertheless, the incident has left a lingering impact on the community’s trust in local authorities. Shelby residents are left grappling with both the health implications of the contamination and the fallout from the city’s response to the crisis.