DeKalb residents complain of 'brown' tap water near Emory

Many DeKalb County residents are reporting brown water flowing through their taps.

The complaints follow a water-main break near I-85 and are in areas between Shallowford Road and Emory University, according to the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management.

The agency released a statement early Wednesday morning saying the water is thought to be safe, though work is underway to correct the issues.

"Although the color is unpleasant, there is no reason to believe that the water is unsafe at this time," watershed Director Scott Towler said. "There is no boil water advisory in effect at this time, but we will continue to monitor the situation and update the public through mass media, our website and social media if circumstances warrant.”

Crews are flushing lines to get rid of the discolored water, Towler said.

The director recommended those who see brown water in their homes to flush the lines. That can be done by turning on the outside spigot and the bathroom tubs for a few minutes each.