The boil water advisory for residents of Asheville has been lifted after Tropical Storm Helene caused damage to the city’s water distribution facilities over a month-and-a-half ago. City officials conducted tests for bacteria and found that the water distribution system was clean, allowing them to lift the advisory. Customers with plumbing installed before 1988 are advised to run taps before consuming water. This marks the first time since the storm that residents can consume water straight from the tap.
The damage to the North Fork Reservoir initially prevented water distribution to the city, but after major efforts were taken to replace water lines, non-potable water was made available in mid-October. Now, residents can resume normal water usage including consumption and hygiene activities. The water has been treated to reduce turbidity levels to normal.
City officials are continuing to assist residents in testing for lead piping as raw reservoir water could not be treated with corrosion control for over two weeks after the storm. Water tests at several schools had shown lead presence after the storm, but officials confirmed that the water had not been consumed. Residents can receive information on testing service lines for lead and request free test kits.
Community care stations offering water distribution, laundry, and showers will remain in place across the county for the foreseeable future. Residents are encouraged to support local journalism by subscribing to the Asheville Citizen Times.
Photo credit
www.citizen-times.com