Residents of the southwest Iowa town of Greenfield have been without clean drinking water this week because of a blue-green algae bloom. Scott Tonderum (TUND-rum), general manager of Greenfield Municipal Utilities, says it’s a first for the city. The algae infested the lake that feeds the town’s water supply.

It’s unclear what caused the problem, first discovered Monday afternoon.

Residents of the Adair County town are under a “bottled water advisory,” meaning only bottled water should be used for drinking, infant feeding, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and preparing food. Tonderum says boiling the tap water will only concentrate the algae more, but the water is safe for showering, washing hands, and laundry. Test results returned this (Wednesday) morning show the city’s water is within what’s considered a safe toxin level, but the advisory remains in place.

Hy-Vee, Casey’s, and Fareway stores have all offered free bottled water to Greenfield residents. Tonderum hopes tap water will be safe for drinking again soon.

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