VDH updates Orange County advisory to ‘do not drink’

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced Saturday night that the previous “do not use water” advisory has now been updated to a “do not drink water” advisory.

In a press release issued by VDH, Rapidan Service Authority (RSA) and the Office of Drinking Water (ODW), the previously issued “do not use water” advisory is now a “do not drink water” advisory effective immediately as of Saturday, Aug. 24.

According to the agencies involved, the choice to update the advisory was made based on lab sampling results, a review by experts and toxicologists, a lessening of the odor of concern at the water treatment plant and no odor of concern at the Rapidan river intake.

Residents under the advisory may now safely use the water for bathing, toilet flushing, laundry and other uses that do not involve consumption or ingestion.

The water should not be used for drinking, beverage and food preparation (including baby formula and juice), dishwashing, cleaning food contact surfaces, making ice or coffee and brushing teeth.

Those who still detect an odor are advised by the RSA to flush their taps. Visit the RSA website for flushing instructions or contact RSA at 540-972-2133.

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