Myrtle Beach residents are seeing black sludge in their water. What is it?
Some Myrtle Beach city residents claim they’ve noticed something unusual coming out of their faucets alongside water: a black sludge.
According to city spokesperson Meredith Denari, there should be “no concern,” and it’s not a water quality issue.
“The ‘black sludge’ is a naturally occurring mineral in ground and surface water called manganese,” she wrote via email when asked about it. “Manganese can sometimes oxidize and leave a dark stain or buildup on surfaces. It’s common across the United States and does not reflect any sort of water quality issue. It’s more cosmetic.”
Denari wrote that she has not received any calls or emails from residents regarding the black sludge.
The Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority is in charge of all city water. The city’s July 2025 Water Quality Report says that drinking water “meets and exceeds all drinking water standards!”
Their treated water supply meets all state and federal standards for safe drinking water, including those related to naturally occurring elements like manganese.
Research from Penn State shows that manganese can be treated by utilizing a Point-of-Entry (POE) treatment device. Denari wrote that other solutions “include a vinegar and baking soda mixture. Homeowners can also add a filter or something similar to get rid of it.”
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