Langley warns residents of water system flush May 19-21

Langley residents may see brown water, lower pressure and other short-lived disruptions as the city flushes its water system from May 19 through May 21. The annual work is meant to remove mineral buildup from city water main lines and keep water quality and appearance up to standard.

City crews will open hydrants and discharge large volumes of water to create a scouring action that cleans the drinking-water pipes, according to the city’s notice. Langley says brief periods of lower-than-normal water pressure are possible during the flush, and temporary discoloration may occur. The city says that discoloration is not a health hazard and should not damage home systems, but it can stain laundry.

If water turns brown, Langley advises residents to run only cold water from a bathtub or outdoor spigot until it runs clear. The city also recommends checking washing machine water before doing laundry so clothes are not stained. After the flush, residents should drain hot water tanks during the following week, following manufacturer instructions.

For questions, the City of Langley Public Works Department can be reached at 360-221-4246 ext. 13. The department oversees city infrastructure, including streets, sidewalks, water service, wastewater treatment, stormwater, public structures and parks, making the flush part of its routine maintenance role rather than a one-time repair.

The city’s water notices also fit into a broader public-health picture. Langley’s Consumer Confidence Reports explain where the city’s water comes from, what it contains and how it compares with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state standards. In its 2024 lead service line inventory, the city said no lead service lines were found in the water system, though 170 of 840 service lines were identified as galvanized material that may have absorbed lead. Langley said it mailed notifications to properties with those lines.

The Washington State Department of Health says more than 6.2 million residents, about 85% of the state’s population, get drinking water from public water systems. Langley’s current notice also follows a similar flush alert posted for April 8 to 10, 2025, showing the work is part of a recurring annual cycle on Whidbey Island’s south end.