Cape Girardeau issues boil water advisory for 14,000 addresses

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — A precautionary boil water advisory remains in effect for about 14,000 addresses in Cape Girardeau through 9:15 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, following a construction-related drop in system pressure, according to city officials.

The advisory was issued after a temporary pressure loss triggered mandatory safety protocols. While no contamination has been detected, officials said water quality testing requires 24 to 48 hours to complete.

Residents in the affected areas are urged to use bottled water or water boiled for three to five minutes before drinking, brushing teeth, washing produce, making ice or washing dishes. Maps outlining the impacted zones are available on the city’s website, with additional detail to be released.

Cape Girardeau Public Schools said Wednesday that all district buildings—except Alma Schrader and Blanchard—fall within the advisory area. Drinking fountains have been shut off, and bottled water is being distributed to students and staff. Nutrition services personnel are following all recommended food-preparation precautions until the advisory is lifted.

Those registered for city alerts will receive notifications by text, phone or email. Others may sign up at Local Alerting – City of Cape Girardeau.

City officials said staff and the contractor involved in the incident are working to restore normal operations as quickly and safely as possible.

“Our primary focus is ensuring the safety and reliability of the water supply for all residents,” the city said in a statement. “We appreciate the community’s patience as water system upgrades continue.”