The City of Lake Charles will begin a comprehensive and system-wide flushing program on its water distribution system beginning the week of July 10, 2017. The purpose of this program is to address discoloration issues in the water mains by removing sediment and other solids in the system. The flushing program will be completed systematically and will attempt to limit the program’s impact on the City’s water demand. A side benefit of this program will be that the operation of numerous fire hydrants will be confirmed in lieu of routine testing performed semi-annually by the Lake Charles Fire Department.

The flushing program will take approximately two months to complete, and the zones served by each of the City’s water plants will be completed as follows:

Zone 1–Generally described as south of Prien Lake Road, west of Lake Street, and north of Tank Farm Road

Zone 2–Generally described as south of Prien Lake Road and east of Lake Street

Zone 3–Generally described as north of Prien Lake Road and south of 12th Street

Zone 4–Generally described as north of 12th Street and east of Highway 14/ Highway 171

Zone 5–Generally described as north of 12th Street and west of Highway 14/ Highway 171

During flushing, customers may experience fluctuations in pressure, flow and possibly discolored water. Residents are advised to follow these steps when noticing discolored water:

  • Reduce water usage, if possible.
  • If just cold water is discolored, try flushing your toilets and running cold water through your bathtub until it clears. If just hot water is discolored, run the hot water until it clears.
  • If your problem persists, contact the City of Lake Charles Water Division at 337-491-1598.

To view maps of the areas undergoing flushing, please visit www.cityoflakecharles.com and click on “Water Flushing Program.” For questions or for more information, please contact 337-491-1598.