COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. — Update (10/8/24): Newport Utilities has lifted the Boil Water Advisory for all its customers.
They said they tested and evaluated water samples taken throughout its service areas and found that the water met all safety standards. Tap water is now safe for consumption and household activities.
For awareness, NU recommends their customers run their faucets for a few minutes to clear any remaining water in their pipes.
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Update (10/4/24): Newport Utilities lifted its water conservation alert after announcing that 99% of people in its service area have running water again. The company also lifted a boil order for areas inside the city of Newport.
A boil water alert remains in effect for Newport Utility customers outside Newport, but it said people are no longer required to reduce their water usage. It recommended that people run their water until it is clear before using it.
For people still without water, Newport Utilities asked for some extra patience -- saying crews would eventually make their way to them.
"A huge 'Thank You' to our water crews and all who have assisted in helping us make the challenging, time-consuming repairs necessary to restore water to our customers," it said.
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Newport Utilities has declared a state of emergency for all water operations after flooding from Hurricane Helene impacted the area's water systems.
"Everyone who has water service at this point in time can expect to experience water disruption within the next approximately 24 hours, depending on your area of service," the company said. "This timeframe is a calculated estimation based on water storage levels, usage approximations, and populations in our various coverage locations."
Newport Utilities said it experienced major damage to many of its crucial treatment systems, resulting in the inability to circulate treated water to customers. The company said it would gradually restore services based on proximity to the treatment plant.
"Once again, this restoration estimate is an approximation based on our evaluation of the significant damage to our system," Newport Utilities said. "Restoration will likely extend into the coming weeks for some customers."
The company also said there were many shelters and aid stations set up within the community and surrounding areas that can provide drinking water and necessities for those who need it.
"We are dedicated to restoring service to our customers as quickly as possible, and will work tirelessly until all services have been fully restored," the company said.
Cocke County is one county that is currently under a Boil Water Advisory.
