San Jose

Smelly Tap Water in South Bay Safe to Drink: Santa Clara Valley Water District

If it smells a little funky or tastes a little off, it's OK; your drinking water is safe. That is the message from the Santa Clara Valley Water District.

The agency said it is trying to minimize a "dirt-like" taste and smell in San Jose's tap water, which is safe to drink.

Officials said with less water in South Bay reservoirs, the shallower water warms up more easily, and creates more algae growth. The algae growth leads to the different taste and smell.

For more information, visit the Santa Clara Valley Water District's Taste and Odor Facts web page.

Contact Us