The Arkansas Department of Health has issued a boil water order for portions of the West Stone County Water Association, impacting communities in Stone and Searcy counties. The affected areas include Alco, Oxley, Leslie, Fox, Rushing, and Parma.
The boil order, issued on Monday due to a main break in the system, advises all impacted residents to take precautions when using tap water for drinking or food preparation. Officials recommend boiling all water intended for human consumption or cooking for at least one minute before use. Ice cubes made with unboiled water should be discarded, and only boiled or bottled water should be used to prepare ice.
The notice will remain in effect until testing confirms the water is free from bacterial contamination and disinfectant levels in the system are adequately restored. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the Arkansas Department of Health for further guidance.