Widespread reports of water suddenly switching off around 1am on Monday morning were confirmed by Forest Hill resident Sim Dalati, whose service was disrupted around that time.

“We are being forced to shower, drink, and wash clothes and dishes in dark brown water,” he said.

Riverina Water County Council has since released the following statement:

“Riverina Water County Council advises customers in the suburbs of Forest Hill, Kooringal and Lake Albert that due to a break in a large water main in central Wagga late Sunday night, discolouration of water is occurring in these suburbs,” the statement reads. 

“Customers are advised to run internal taps for a short period of time which should assist with flushing the dirty water from pipes within the home. The water remains suitable for consumption and use.”

However, residents including Mr Salati remain unconvinced and says it’s still affecting the household.

“It’s just the inconvenience of residents not being able to shower for work or drink water,” he said.

“We’ve been unable to do any washing or dishes.”