Storm Victims: How to identify safe water usage

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – State and federal officials are urging residents impacted by the historic and catastrophic storm to use caution regarding safe water usage.

The latest Boil Water Advisory was issued out of Belmont after reports of discolored water and that crews were trying to identify the cause.

There is no estimation right now on when safe water supplies will return and officials in Buncombe County and Asheville have currently set up posts to distribute water to those in need at the following locations.

• William W. Estes Elementary School – 275 Overlook Road, Asheville
• Sand Hill Elementary – 154 Sand Hill School Road, Asheville (Please enter via Acton Circle)
• North Windy Ridge Intermediate School – 20 Doan Road, Weaverville
• Fairview Elementary School – 1355 Charlotte Highway, Fairview

Sewage overflow has also been reported in certain areas, including an 11,275-gallon spill from a broken pipe and ‘severe natural conditions’ along Sugar Creek and Arrowpoint Blvd. on Monday, the City of Charlotte said.

A wastewater spill was also reported on Lake Wylie near Turtle Grove Terrace on Saturday that included 2,050 gallons of sewage.

Here are some suggestions from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

• Do not use contaminated well water. Floods can damage drinking water wells and lead to contamination. Floodwater can contaminate well water with livestock waste, human sewage, chemicals and other contaminants that can lead to illness when used for drinking, bathing and other hygiene activities. Dug wells, bored wells and wells less than 50 feet deep are more likely to be contaminated, even if damage is not apparent.
• Do not use water from heating systems. Water from radiators or boilers that are part of a home heating system should never be used as potable water.
• Use only bottled, boiled or treated water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene. For specific advisories or recommendations regarding boiling or treating water in your area, look for information from your local health department, tribal agency or local media channels.

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