Mount Airy says water remains safe as taste and odor work continues

Mount Airy officials say the city's treated water remains safe for human consumption while crews continue addressing an earthy taste and odor reported by some customers.

In a Sept. 9 update, the city said water is tested multiple times each day for chlorine, turbidity, pH and other required measures, and that the system continues to meet or exceed federal and state drinking-water standards. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has reviewed the situation and agreed that the city is taking appropriate steps, according to the notice.

The city says activated carbon was added to the treatment process in August and crews continue to monitor, test complaint areas and flush hydrants. There is not yet a definitive timeline for the taste and odor to disappear throughout the entire system.

Customers experiencing problems can contact the Water Treatment Plant at 336-786-3595.

Source: City of Mount Airy water update, checked Sept. 16, 2026. Original editorial SVG artwork is illustrative and does not depict a specific treatment facility.