The lead levels in Flint's water may be too high to filter

Local, state, and federal officials encouraged Flint residents Friday to test their water for lead. Recent samples from 26 homes in the Michigan city showed lead levels too high for water filters to effectively handle, the Detroit Free Press reports. Over 4,000 samples were taken altogether.

"It is essential that all Flint residents have the water in their homes tested as soon as possible," Gov. Rick Snyder (R) said in a statement.

Officials said pregnant women and children under 6 should drink only bottled water until testing is complete. The city has free testing kits available at fire stations.

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Flint's water crisis was prompted by a 2014 switch in the city's water source.