Day 6: What's wrong with the water in New Jersey?

Experts appear to still be baffled by a change in the taste and odor of the local water supply.

On Saturday, New Jersey American Water provided customers with an update on an ongoing water issue that several New Jersey towns are experiencing. According to a message posted on the utility's website, there has been "no public health risks identified," and the "water meets all state and federal drinking water standards."

An update said that the utility had taken samples from 49 sites. NJAW is working with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to figure out the issue.

"NJ DEP and New Jersey American Water continue to vigorously explore the genesis of this problem, already taking hundreds of samples. Despite continuing taste and odor concerns, we have not found any exceedance of our state or federal drinking water quality standards," NJ DEP commissioner Shawn LaTourette said.

The message goes on to say that the state DEP is assisting the utility with its investigation, as it specifically looks at "potential watershed pollution sources" for what may be causing the reported change in smell and taste.

The utility said it will continue to target hydrant flushing and adjust treatments.

The issue is impacting the utility's Raritan system, which distributes water to customers in a number of New Jersey counties.

New Jersey American Water began receiving reports late Tuesday night from residents, and an investigation began.

How to prepare for winter in NJ: 11 essential gear tips

Because you never know what may happen in the bipolar type of winter we have here, you should always be prepared. Do you want to get through the season without freezing?

I’m going to give you the 11 must-have cold-weather items to survive a New Jersey winter.

Gallery Credit: Judi Franco/New Jersey 101.5