Water in an Ontario city may temporarily have a musty or earthy taste due to seasonal changes, as warned by city officials.

Water in an Ontario city may temporarily have a musty or earthy taste due to seasonal changes, as warned by city officials.

In late August to early September, residents of Owen Sound, Ontario may notice a change in the taste and odour of their tap water. This annual phenomenon is due to several factors related to the city's water source and seasonal changes.

1. Seasonal Biological Changes: As Georgian Bay reaches its peak temperature, biological changes occur in the source water. These changes lead to the production of odour-causing chemical compounds such as geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol. Even very small concentrations of these compounds can result in noticeable earthy or musty tastes and odors in the water.
2. Increased Chlorination: Higher water temperatures require higher levels of chlorination to ensure the water is properly treated. This increase in chlorination can also contribute to changes in the taste or odor of the water, sometimes making it more noticeable.

Despite these changes, the water remains safe to drink. Residents are advised to use remedies like water filters or refrigeration to reduce or eliminate these issues. The city has reported that these changes are not unusual and is not currently reporting any health risks associated with the temporary changes in water taste and odour.

The city of Owen Sound uses chlorine as a disinfectant in its water supply. However, during this time, residents may also notice an increase in the taste or odour of chlorine. This issue with water taste and odour is a common occurrence in many Ontario municipalities.

The City of Owen Sound is advising residents that water may taste musty or earthy from late August to early September. Tap water from the municipal water supply systems remains safe to drink during this time.

[1] "Geosmin and 2-Methylisoborneol in Drinking Water: Sources, Detection, and Control Strategies." Water Research. Accessed July 22, 2022. [Link]

[2] "Owen Sound Water Quality Report." City of Owen Sound. Accessed July 22, 2022. [Link]

Read also:

• Amidst India's escalating climate crisis, transgender individuals continue to persevere
• Germany's three-month tenure under Merz's administration feels significantly extended
• Governing body allegedly persists in enjoying vacation time amidst Spain's highest danger level due to fires, claims Feijóo
• United Nations Human Rights Evaluation, Session 45: United Kingdom's Statement Regarding Mauritius' Human Rights Record