(City of Pocatello Press Release, April 24, 2026)
Beginning April 27, 2026, the City of Pocatello Water Department will begin its annual water system flushing program. The process is expected to take approximately three weeks to complete.
System flushing is a critical part of maintaining the City’s water infrastructure. These water lines connect directly to homes and businesses, and flushing them each year helps ensure residents continue to receive clean, high-quality drinking water. The process also serves several key purposes:
- Improves water quality by removing sediment from distribution pipes
- Ensures proper operation of fire hydrants and valves
- Confirms adequate water flow for firefighting needs
What to Expect During Flushing:
- You may experience a temporary drop in water pressure
- Water may appear rusty or cloudy—this discoloration is not harmful and should clear within a few hours
While portions of the region are experiencing dry conditions, this routine maintenance is carefully managed and remains essential to protecting water quality and system reliability. The water used during flushing is part of maintaining a safe and effective distribution system, and the City continues to monitor supply conditions closely while encouraging residents to use water wisely, especially during the warmer months.
If you notice crews flushing hydrants on your street, please avoid using tap water, especially for laundry or dishwashing, until the work is complete.
For your safety and the safety of our workers, drive cautiously around hydrant-flushing crews and treat them as you would any road construction team.
For more information, please contact the Water Department at 208-234-6182.
