Disturbing image shows major problem facing entire city

A woman has revealed extreme photos of what the water in her home looks like — a problem about 150,000 people are facing in this US city.

Some residents in Jackson, Mississippi, have been without safe water since last week after flooding and heavy rainfall exacerbated longstanding issues in one of two water-treatment plants, AP reports.

Jackson resident Sydney Franks shared on Facebook last week she had no drinking water for several days, and no water at all some days.

"Monday had no water, yesterday water was usable to flush toilets and they said we could boil it, but I didn't use it," she explained. "Earlier today, no water at all."

When the water did eventually surface, it was a cloudy brown colour that made taking a bath look not so desirable.

As many residents were without proper running water due to issues with the OB Curtis Water Plant, President Biden signed an emergency disaster declaration last Tuesday.

Since then, the national guard as well as other organisations have been helping to distribute bottled water around the city.

Schools and businesses forced to shut amid water crisis

Jackson Public Schools said from last Tuesday it had shifted to virtual learning.

"The water shortage is plaguing schools, residents, and businesses throughout the city," the statement read.

"While progress is being made toward resolving this massive challenge, most of our schools still have low or no water pressure.

"Additionally, we have several schools whose air conditioning system depends on water to run effectively."

An update was due to be released on Monday about whether the water conditions in the school buildings were safe enough for students to return to in-person learning on Tuesday.

• How to donate water and help residents affected by the crisis in Jackson

• Grim prediction for Aussie summer after 'La Niña triple threat' declared

• Satellite images show extent of Pakistan's 'colossal crisis'

According to a City of Jackson Mississippi council statement from Sunday, "the O.B. Curtis Water Plant made significant gains."

"All of Jackson should now have pressure and most are now experiencing normal pressure," the statement read.

"Work continues in the plant today on both the membrane and conventional systems with city staff and mutual aid teams from Georgia and Florida rural water associations."

The City's website said that Jackson would remain under a boil water notice until there is additional information available.

Residents should use bottled water or water boiled for one minute and then cooled for “drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation,” according to the City’s website.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.