Gallup Fire Department Conducts Citywide Hydrant Flow Testing, Residents Advised
The Gallup Fire Department began citywide fire hydrant flow testing on Monday December 1, 2025, and will continue throughout December. Residents may see temporary water discoloration while crews open and flush hydrants as part of annual maintenance and capacity testing that supports the department grading process.
The Gallup Fire Department began a monthlong program of fire hydrant flow testing on Monday December 1, 2025. Crews are opening and flushing every hydrant across the city and performing annual maintenance. In selected locations hydrants will be fully opened to measure water flow and capacity. The testing is being conducted in preparation for the Fire Department Grading Criteria.
Officials warn that for areas undergoing testing there may be temporary discoloration of water. The Fire Department advises residents to be aware of this possibility and to contact the department with any questions or concerns at 505 722 4195. The department has said it will make every effort to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.
The operation serves both routine upkeep and technical assessment. Opening hydrants and measuring flow rates helps the fire department document water supply capacity and ensure hydrants operate correctly. The graded data contributes to broader evaluations of infrastructure and emergency response readiness. For local residents the most visible consequence will likely be cloudy or discolored tap water in neighborhoods where crews are working. Such discoloration is generally temporary and caused by disturbance of sediments in pipes during flushing and full flow tests.
Residents should plan accordingly when water clarity is important for household tasks. If discolored water appears, avoid using it for laundry or food preparation until it clears. If discoloration persists or there are other concerns report them to the Gallup Fire Department at the provided number. Businesses and institutions that rely on clear water for operations should note the testing schedule may affect specific neighborhoods at different times during the month.
Completion of the testing will restore normal water conditions and leave hydrants inspected and serviced. By carrying out the work now the Gallup Fire Department aims to assure residents that hydrants and supply capacity are maintained and documented. For immediate questions contact the Gallup Fire Department at 505 722 4195.
