Connecticut Towns Reopen After E. Coli Water Crisis Resolved

WHO:

CT Examiner - Connecticut Water Company customers in nine towns.

WTNH - Residents in the Chester and Guilford water systems.

WHAT:

CT Examiner - A boil water order was lifted after testing confirmed no E. coli in the water.

WTNH - E. coli was detected in the water supply, leading to a boil water order for several towns.

WTNH - The Chester Water System includes Deep River, Essex, Haddam, and Chester; the Guilford Water System includes Old Saybrook and Westbrook.

WHERE:

CT Examiner - Nine eastern Connecticut towns.

WTNH - Essex, Connecticut, and surrounding towns in the Chester and Guilford water systems.

WHEN:

WTNH - The boil water order was lifted on a Saturday, following repeat tests.

WTNH - The initial detection of E. coli occurred prior to the lifting of the boil water order.

WHY:

WTNH - The boil water order was implemented due to the presence of E. coli, a harmful bacteria.

HOW:

WTNH - Testing of water samples was conducted to determine the presence of E. coli, leading to the decision to lift the boil water order once safety was confirmed.

(UPDATED July 12, 2026 00:13 UTC)

A boil water order affecting customers in nine towns, including Essex, Deep River, and Haddam, has been lifted after testing confirmed that no E. coli was present in the water supply. The order was initially put in place due to the detection of E. coli, which is a harmful bacteria, but repeat tests showed the water is now safe for consumption. Residents in the Chester and Guilford water systems can now enjoy clean water again following this important update.