MICHIGAN — On Saturday, August 2, residents in Toledo and parts of southeast Michigan were warned not to drink from or bathe in tap water because of it was deemed hazardous. But the water has since been given the “all clear” by Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins, who deemed it safe for the residents in the two states. 

Chemical testing at the Collins Park Water Treatment Plant in Toledo found high levels of microcystin, which is produced by a blue-green algae and which can damage the liver. Residents were warned not to drink, bathe or give it to pets. 

Ohio Gov. John Kasich declared a state of emergency and people rushed to buy bottled water and ice from stores. For 48 hours, northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan residents who got their water from the South County Water System in Monroe were advised not to drink from it.  Customers who get their water from the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department weren’t affected.

The water was declared safe for Ohio and Michigan Monday when Collins drank a clear glass of water in front of cameras and environmental agencies confirmed the microcystin was an acceptable level.