The City of Winnipeg issued an advisory to residents in east Winnipeg that they may experience brown water when crews hook up a new water main to accommodate the new Plessis Road underpass. The work is expected to take place on Dec. 18 through Dec. 19.

Tap water may be temporarily discoloured in the areas of west Transcona, East Kildonan and East Elmwood, bordered by Plessis Road, Dugald Road, Nairn Avenue, Gateway Road, McLeod Avenue, and Grassie Boulevard.

The city says anytime there is a major change in the rate of flow of water, sediment in the pipes can loosen and flow into the water.

The discoloured water is not dangerous to human health, but it can stain clothes and affect the taste of water, said the city.

Residents who experience brown water should turn on their cold water tap and let it run for a few minutes. If the water doesn’t turn clear, turn off the tap and wait 30 minutes before trying again. If the water doesn’t clear up after a couple of hours, call 311.

More information on the city's water main work can be found at their website.