Mattoon Lifts 'Do Not Drink' Order After Test Results

MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) — According to water test findings from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the 'do not drink' advisory has been removed, according to local authorities in Mattoon.

The city of Mattoon, together with the IEPA, gathered water samples during the early hours of Saturday. The test results obtained on Sunday morning indicate a reduction in the levels of algae-related nerve toxin.

Water in Mattoon continues to be under a 'do not drink' advisory after IEPA testing findings.

Now, Mattoon said The algal bloom toxin level is currently at 0.252 parts per billion, lower than the IEPA's "do not drink" warning limit of 0.3 parts per billion. On Saturday, officials said The test results showed concentrations of 0.314 parts per billion, a decrease from 0.35 parts per billion in earlier tests.

The City stated that they have finished flushing the municipal water system. The "do not drink" advisory has been removed, but there are several steps that residents should take before using tap water again. These include: