Clearing Up Confusion About Drinking Water (Photo – Healthdrink911)
As the Eaton fire persist, low water pressure, fire damage to the reservoirs, and potential debris in the water supply have the potential to impact the quality and safety of the water in the areas roughly corresponding to the evacuation areas in Pasadena.
By Christian Brewster
The State Water Resources Control Board, Pasadena Public Health Department, and Pasadena Water and Power have advised residents not to drink or use the potentially contaminated water in an area that roughly corresponds to the mandatory evacuation zone. Officials are not yet able to enter the area to test the water quality. They know that some of the pumps serving the area are down and that could indicate a safety issue. The pumps are running normally elsewhere in the City.
The pervasiveness of the fires runs the very high risk of ash, sediment, heavy metals, and other related chemicals entering the water supply. Turbidity, meaning the quality of water, specifically its thickness and cloudiness, is increased. Chemicals from burning materials can also enter the water supply Although posing a more direct danger to people, contaminated water also impacts aquatic life. Runoff from fire-affected areas can increase the levels of bacteria, toxins, and contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, which puts wildlife at risk.
The areas of Pasadena not roughly covered in the evacuation areas, as well as surrounding areas, are not affected by contaminated water. Residents can continue to drink and use their tap water unless advised not to do so in the coming days. For those living in the affected areas, use bottled water. It will take at least 48 hours for retesting and further information about the safety of the water.
It is important to note that the air quality for Pasadena and surrounding areas remains dangerous and unhealthy. Avoid going outside and take precautionary steps to keep safe indoors.
For more updates about the Eaton fire, click the link here.
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