JXN Water Crews Actively Flushing Lines System-Wide as Seasonal Manganese Levels Cause Water Discoloration

JACKSON, Miss. — Over the past week, JXN Water customers in parts of the distribution system have reported discolored water, ranging in appearance from yellow to brown. JXN Water has confirmed the cause as a seasonal rise in manganese, a naturally occurring mineral present in the Ross Barnett Reservoir and Pearl River source water. Warmer temperatures accelerate the release of manganese from soil and bedrock into the water supply, a pattern JXN Water monitors closely each summer.

The discoloration is an aesthetic issue, not a health or safety issue. JXN Water’s water continues to be tested regularly and meets all applicable state and federal drinking water standards. Manganese at these levels does not present a health risk to the general public.

What JXN Water Is Doing

  • Actively flushing water mains across affected areas to clear manganese sediment from the lines.
  • Adjusting treatment processes at our water treatment facilities to reduce manganese entering the distribution system.
  • Monitoring manganese levels system-wide, with particular attention to areas experiencing the highest customer volume of reports.

What Customers Can Do

  • Run cold water for a few minutes if it appears discolored; this often clears the line.
  • Use cold water for drinking and cooking, and flush taps after water has been sitting for six or more hours.
  • Delay laundry until water runs clear to avoid staining light-colored clothing.
  • Contact JXN Water’s 24/7 Customer Care line at 601-500-5200 to report ongoing discoloration in your area.

“We understand how frustrating it is to turn on your tap and see discolored water, and we don’t take that frustration lightly. Our operations team has been on the ground flushing lines and adjusting treatment since the reports began, and we are seeing real progress. This is a known, seasonal challenge tied to our source water, and it is one we manage every year. We encourage customers to visit JXNWater.com/FAQ/ or watch the following video to learn more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_884S_xZv3M”

— Aisha Carson, Lead Communications Officer & Spokesperson, JXN Water

JXN Water will continue to provide updates as flushing and treatment adjustments progress, and encourages residents experiencing discoloration to reach out so crews can prioritize affected areas.