STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Officials from the city Department of Environmental Protection said the
poses no health hazard, and advised borough residents to run their tap until the discoloration works its way out.
"We have to be very, very clear, this is not a health issue," said spokeswoman Mercedes Padilla. "It is not a public threat to the health of the community."
According to Ms. Padilla, basic maintenence work done on Thursday to the water system stirred up some sediment.
Crews have been working to flush hydrants and clear the water out, and they remain on location, she said.
The DEP continues to monitor the situation.
In the meantime, Ms. Padilla advised borough residents still experiencing brown tap water to run the faucet, and if they have further questions, to contact 311.
New Dorp, Bulls Head, Midland Beach, Great Kills, Westerleigh and New Brighton were among the neighborhoods to experience the problem.
Residents made their displeasure known beginning on Thursday via social media posts, emails and calls to the Advance and Island politicians, including City Councilmen Steven Matteo and Vincent Ignizio.