Flint, Michigan, has been going through a severe water crisis since April 2014.
The problem began when Flint switched from Detroit's water pipe, supplied from Lake Huron, to a brand-new system — a process that was slated to take up to two years. In the meantime, the city decided to supply water to its residents from the Flint River.
The people of Flint were told by the city that the water was safe, and that the funny taste and odd smells were just the pipes adjusting to the new system.
It wasn't until early in 2015 that they found out that the water was contaminated with a shocking amount of lead.
Flint switched back to the Detroit water supply in October 2015, but the damage had already been done. President Obama issued a state of emergency on Saturday, January 16, and this week a US Environmental Protection Agency regional director whose jurisdiction included Flint resigned in connection to the crisis.
Below are 11 images of the ongoing water crisis.
SEE ALSO: Michigan governor releases emails showing debate over who was 'responsible' for Flint water crisis
The lead poisoning from the river that goes through the dirty pipes has caused the water to become discolored and have an odd smell and taste.
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/687325995834150913
Flint, Michigan, is suffering a major water crisis. Here's how you can help. https://t.co/esK2VZnKVxpic.twitter.com/Q4lwDWQ3IS
The Flint River is the main source of the contamination. Flint residents of all ages have tested positive for elevated levels of lead, which can lead to kidney dysfunction, loss of developmental skills in children, permanent brain damage, and other severe health issues.
Since the water is unsafe to drink and bathe in, Flint residents have to go pick up water provided by the state almost daily.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider