Hurricane Helene has wrecked havoc in several southeastern states, and Hurricane Milton is barreling towards Florida. These latest climate disasters have left a devastating trail of destruction, leaving many communities without power, cell service, and running water. Our hearts go out to all those affected, including our River Network staff in Asheville, North Carolina, and in Florida, who are thankfully safe amidst the widespread flooding.A little dated, but still good advice.
These events serve as a stark reminder of the critical importance of proactive planning and the urgent need to build resilient communities. This blog is a work-in-progress to provide timely resources related to flooding impacts and drinking water safety.
Heavy rainfall can make well water unsafe to drink. If you think flooding has impacted your well water, use bottled water. Do not use water from a flooded well until it has been tested. If the well was flooded and underwater, do not turn on the pump until you are sure the electrical system is completely dried out. Pumps need to be cleaned and lubricated if they’ve been covered by flood water and sediment.
If you get your water from a public water system and are under a boil water advisory, boil water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and washing any areas of the skin that have been cut or injured.
Waterways affected by flooding may also be unsafe to contact – East Tennessee surface waters may be contaminated by wastewater treatment plants that were compromised, for example. Floodwaters may bring contamination from other industries, farmland, and power plants, and standing water can increase the presence of mold and insects, like mosquitoes, that can carry diseases.
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