Residents in parts of Brevard County are reporting that their tap water has developed an unpleasant taste and odor, leading some to stop using it for drinking, cooking, and giving it to pets. The City of Melbourne confirmed this week that customers have noticed changes in the water's aesthetic quality, citing recent heavy rainfall and an algal bloom in Lake Washington as the cause. City officials emphasized that the water remains safe to drink but are adjusting treatment processes to address the issue.
Cassandra Frandson, a Satellite Beach resident, described the water as smelling 'moldy, almost like a mildewy smell' and said it 'smells like dirt, like muddy dirt.' Some residents said they avoid using the water for anything other than bathing, though they continue to use it for that purpose. The West Melbourne City Council also noted that Lake Washington is experiencing a significant algal bloom, with warning signs posted at the lake advising visitors not to swim, keep pets away from the water, and avoid contact with it.
Melbourne's water system serves approximately 140,000 customers across 42 square miles. The city said the recent rainfall has increased the amount of organic material entering Lake Washington, which is then processed through the water treatment plant. This organic material, combined with the algal bloom, is altering the water's taste and smell. Officials stressed that no health risks have been identified, but they are monitoring the situation closely.
The city is working with state environmental agencies to assess the impact of the algal bloom and determine long-term solutions. Residents have called for more transparency and updates from city officials. 'It’s frustrating not knowing exactly what’s in the water,' one resident said. The city has scheduled a public meeting next week to address concerns and provide further details about the water quality and treatment adjustments.