09/27/2025
The City of Litchfield is providing an update on the ongoing system-wide boil order currently in effect. While significant progress has been made, the boil order will continue through the weekend to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability are met before lifting the order.
Working closely with the Illinois Rural Water Association, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and other industry professionals, City staff have successfully restored disinfection capabilities within our water treatment process. Disinfected water is now being delivered into the system. However, the levels are not yet consistently at the safe thresholds required across the entire distribution network. Until stable and verified results are achieved, the boil order must
remain in place.
The Illinois EPA has been onsite and is providing expert guidance to help mitigate the problem. Based on their recommendations:
All water used for ingestion (drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, etc.) should be boiled for 10 minutes before use.
Water is safe for bathing and general hygiene purposes.
Our commitment is clear:
? Safety First: The health and well-being of Litchfield residents is our top priority. We will not lift the boil order until test results confirm the water is safe throughout the system.
? Proactive Action: The City is taking every recommended step, including conducting a Free Burn of the distribution system, to restore water quality and integrity as quickly aspossible.
? Transparency: We will continue to provide timely updates so residents and businesses remain informed every step of the way.
We understand the inconvenience this situation has created, and we deeply appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation. Our crews are working around the clock with support from the Illinois EPA, Illinois Rural Water Association, and other industry professionals to resolve this issue safely and effectively.
The City of Litchfield will provide the next update as additional water quality results are available. Until then, residents are reminded to continue following all boil order precautions.
For questions or concerns, please contact City Hall at 217-324-8151 or follow updates on the City’s official website and social media pages.
