The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency will begin flushing The Woodlands water distribution system the week of Feb. 4, the agency announced in a press release.

The flushing process involves opening each fire hydrant in the township water system and allowing water to flow out for a brief period. The routine maintenance will last for an estimated eight to 10 weeks, and it will cover all 10 municipal utility districts serving The Woodlands including: The Woodlands MUD No. 1, The Woodlands Metro Center MUD, and Montgomery County MUDs 6, 7, 36, 39, 46, 47, 60 and 67.

The WJPA advised residents that the flushing will agitate natural minerals in The Woodlands water system including iron, potentially causing a red or brown coloring in the water due to oxidization. That reaction will not affect the drinkability of tap water, but the agency told residents who notice colored water to run their faucets and avoid washing any clothes until the coloring disappears.

For more information on the upcoming flushing, contact the WJPA at 855-426-7283.