Columbus Water Works: Water supply not impacted after operational system communication issue
Columbus Water Works says the community’s water supply remains safe after a communication issue affected its operating system.
According to Columbus Water Works Director Jeremy Cummings, operators noticed communication problems within the system and quickly responded by switching operations from automatic mode into manual mode as a precaution.
Cummings said the issue resulted in a minor impact to operations, but water quality and customer service were not affected.
“We were quick to respond, went from automatic to manual, water quality and service was not impacted and we are in the process of bringing everything back to normal,” Cummings said.
Cummings said teams are currently working to restore the system back to normal operations after disconnecting the affected communication system and transitioning into manual operation.
The proper authorities were notified, and an active investigation is underway, including a review of security-related aspects of the incident.
The incident comes as water utilities across the country continue to review cybersecurity and operational technology safeguards. Federal agencies have warned that water systems are increasingly targeted because of their reliance on automated controls that manage critical operations.
However, Cummings says there is currently no indication the Columbus incident impacted water quality or service, and Columbus Water Works is working with authorities as the investigation continues.
Officials say customers do not need to take any action, and the water system remains safe.
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