Lake Michigan freezing causes low water pressure in Benton Charter Township

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- Benton Charter Township is seeing low water pressure due to Lake Michigan starting to freeze. These cold temperatures have caused ice buildup in the pipes that supply water to the area. The water has been tested for contamination and while the results were negative, the area is on a boil order to ensure safety.

This type of freeze up has not happened in over 10 years; ABC57's Sidney Moore spoke with Cathy Yates who says the main groups impacted are the high district users and businesses.

Cathy Yates, Benton Charter Township Supervisor, said, "We're asking people just to do normal, but not excessively. You know, if, if you were thinking of like doing major washing, maybe hold that off. But, you know, taking baths and doing normal stuff, we expect that to happen for businesses is the big thing, because they use a lot of water, and we're looking for them to do their part in holding off."

They are hoping to resolve the issue Tuesday, but due to the temperatures Benton Charter Township at 1725 Territorial Road Benton Harbor, Mich. 49022 will open at 10 a.m.

The real fight to fix this issue is against Mother Nature, and with these cold temps it is much more difficult to remove the ice and make it stay away.

These cold temperatures also impact those who have to be outside. If you need to find a warming center in the area, visit: Indiana 211 or Michigan 211.