What does an increase in turbidity typically indicate?

An increase in turbidity typically indicates potential contamination, which can be due to various factors such as sediment, organic material, or microorganisms entering the water system. Turbidity is a measure of how clear water is; when turbidity increases, it suggests that there are particles suspended in the water, which can interfere with the water's quality and safety. High levels of turbidity can impede disinfection processes and may hide harmful pathogens or pollutants, making it a crucial parameter to monitor in water distribution systems for public health reasons. Monitoring turbidity levels is essential to ensure that the water remains safe for consumption and use.