Cape Town city bosses have said a slight change in the smell and taste of drinking water could last up to four weeks.

The earthy colour and taste of water is due to naturally occurring compounds called geosim which is released during hot weather conditions.

Officials were inundated with complaints from residents regarding the water problems.

Utility Mayco member Shehaam Sims said Cape Town's tap water was still safe to drink.

“It is not a hazard on our health and it is not toxic.”

-  Eyewitness News