WASHINGTON (7News) — A Boil Water Advisory was issued Wednesday night for all of D.C. and Arlington County, including the Pentagon and Reagan National Airport and Arlington National Cemetery, according to DC Water.
The advisory is due to a drop in water supply from the Washington Aqueduct which is sourced from the Potomac River.
Residents are advised to boil any water that will be ingested due to the unknown water quality.
DC Water officials said they were notified Wednesday by the Army Corps of Engineers Washington Aqueduct that due to turbidity, the Dalecarlia Water Treatment Plant reduced production and all water treatment operations were being conducted at the McMillan Treatment Plant.
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Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water as described by the EPA that is used to indicate water quality and determine if disease-causing organisms are present. The advisory was issued as officials anticipate an increase in turbidity.
According to officials, turbidity has no health effects, but it can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Organisms can include bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps and associated headaches. This can pose greater risks for infants, young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Officials said they have no information that the water was contaminated, but the advisory was issued as a precaution. Residents may notice the water looks cloudy or hazy.
Officials said the advisory will remain in effect until follow-up testing can confirm that the water is safe to drink. It is unclear when follow-up tests will take place.
Arlington County residents in the Willston Pressure Zone, a small area that borders Fairfax County near the intersection of McKinley Road and Wilson Boulevard, are not impacted by the advisory, according to county officials.
Residents should take the following precautions:
- Throw out any beverages or ice made after 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3
- Run cold water before boiling
- bring water to a rolling boil for one minute and let it cool
- Store boiled water in a clean, covered container
Boiled or bottled water should be used for:
- Drinking
- Brushing teeth
- Preparing and cooking food
- Washing fruit and vegetables
- Preparing infant formula
- Making ice
- Washing dishes
- Giving water to pets
WSSC Water officials confirmed Wednesday night that the advisory is not affecting customers in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.
Check with 7News for updates.
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