Although lead was the primary problem of the Flint Water Crisis the initial cause for concern in the water was due to Trihalomethanes (TTHMS). In 2015, one morning I got out of the shower and my ears were bleeding as a reaction to the unsafe level of TTHMS in the water. 

TTHMS are formed as a by-product predominantly when chlorine is used to disinfect drinking water. They are generally referred to as disinfection by-products. They result from the reaction of chlorine or bromine with organic matter present in the water being treated. TTHMS are linked with adverse health effects such as cancer and possible negative reproductive outcomes.