County residents, particularly in the north end, have been dealing with water pressure issues for at least the last week, combined with record summer heat, which has led to an uncomfortable situation for many.
Previously, RWD2 issued a voluntary boil order, informing residents to boil water before consumption due to compromised water quality. This notice has compounded the frustrations caused by ongoing water pressure issues.
Okmulgee Emergency Management has been actively assisting in the situation. In a Tuesday Facebook post, they mentioned, “We are continuing to monitor and be in contact with officials regarding the water issues affecting RWD #2.” They had stationed two water buffalos at the Preston Water Office and requested additional water buffalos from Muscogee Nation Emergency Management at Twin Hills School, assuring residents that every possible measure is being taken to resolve the issue promptly.
RWD#2 employees have been working around the clock to restore water to residents, which includes many near Preston and the Twin Hills area.
City of Okmulgee water department crews are working to find the root of the problem inside the pump house. The City of Okmulgee’s water supply feeds into seven districts, including Rural Water District 2. Bryan Dudley, plant operations director for the City of Okmulgee, stated in a media interview, that water is slowly starting to flow to the district, but crews do not have a definite timetable for when everything will be back to normal.
OCEM also stated they were notified of the issue on Aug. 29 and have been coordinating with local and state officials, with extra staff from the City of Okmulgee assisting in locating the problem. They advised residents with livestock to prepare alternative water sources like ponds or wells during heat and drought seasons and assured continuous monitoring and support for those affected.
The City of Okmulgee also announced on Tuesday that several rural districts have been experiencing water shortages. To help restore pressure, they have temporarily shut off splash pads and asked residents with irrigation systems to reduce watering times and those planning water-related activities to postpone them until service is restored. They also requested that any sightings of standing water in normally dry areas be reported to Public Works at 918-756-4159, as this might indicate a water leak.
Many residents have voiced their frustrations to local officials and on social media, stating they have been essentially without water for days. In a Thursday morning announcement, the City of Okmulgee reported a citizen discovered a leak in a wooded area on the northwest corner of town.
According to the post, “Once emergency locates are completed, repair work will begin.” Residents near the intersection of Oklahoma Ave and Wyandotte should expect a temporary loss of pressure and water.
County residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as efforts continue to resolve the water issues amidst the ongoing excessive heat.
