Hydrant Flushing Season Begins in Rochelle

ROCHELLE – Municipal Utilities crews have started the annual hydrant flushing program in Rochelle. Over the next couple of months crews will flush about 900 hydrants, which may cause temporary water discoloration in some areas. The city uses unidirectional flushing that clears water mains by opening and closing hydrants in a set pattern to remove sediment and improve flow. The work may lead to short periods of low water pressure and water that appears discolored for a few hours due to iron and manganese particles. Officials say the water remains safe to use. Residents are advised to run cold water until it runs clear, especially before doing laundry. The Water Department will focus on flushing in the northwest part of Rochelle this week. The work is part of routine infrastructure maintenance to keep water mains clean, improve water quality, and support fire safety. Residents can sign up for text alerts for advance notice of flushing in their area at Cityofrochelle.net/alert.