Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. said Thursday morning that the city’s water problem is “now at a manageable level.”

“Citizens of Selma, I am pleased to announce that we have managed to get the water leakage to a manageable level,” Perkins said in a statement.  “Our water supply has been stabilized and our tanks on the low side are at normal levels. The high-side tanks are increasing as well. Selma, we are out of danger.”

Perkins credited the Selma Water System and city workers for their dedication and hard work over the last few days addressing the water problem. Perkins is also the superintendent of the Selma Water and Sewer Board.

“In my opinion, these guys are heroes,” Perkins said. “Their tireless effort averted a complete shutdown of our water system.”

Perkins called the Queen city’s water supply “safe and usable,” but offered guidance for some residents.

“We ask that citizens continue to conserve but normal use is fine,” Perkins said. “ Also, remember if your water has been turned off you may experience brown water initially. Just drain your lines of the backup and things should be just fine.”

Perkins also urged residents patience with plumbers.

“We need to be patient with our local plumbers; they are very busy right now,” Perkins said “Selma, we did good.”

On Christmas Day, Perkins declared a local state of emergency, saying water pipes burst throughout the city because of the deep freeze and it was a strong possibility that the city would run out of water if the situation weren’t addressed properly.

The situation worsened Monday evening with the development of more leaks and frozen pipes thawed. The Selma Water Board turned off main lines throughout the city, attempting to further isolate major leaks.