Boil Water Advisory Issued for Allegheny and Washington Counties by Pennsylvania American Water
Over 90,000 customers of Pennsylvania American Water are currently under a boil water advisory as of Saturday morning. This advisory affects residents in both Allegheny and Washington counties.
Cause of the Boil Water Advisory
According to Pennsylvania American Water, an early morning power surge led to a significant depletion of water storage at the tank near the Aldrich Water Treatment Plant in Elrama. Consequently, this depletion caused a drop in water pressure within the distribution system. Such pressure changes can potentially allow contaminants to enter the system through backflow or back siphonage.
Current Status and Response
Pennsylvania American Water has stated that normal electrical service has now been restored. The company is actively collecting and analyzing water samples to ensure the safety of the water supply.
How to Find Out if You’re Affected
- Customers can check their address to see if they are impacted by the advisory.
- A detailed map is available through a dedicated link provided by Pennsylvania American Water.
Guidelines During the Advisory
Under the boil water advisory, customers are advised to follow strict guidelines to protect their health. All water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute before use. This includes:
- Drinking water
- Water for making ice
- Washing dishes
- Brushing teeth
- Food preparation
Health Risks of Contaminated Water
Using contaminated water can lead to severe health issues, including bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Symptoms may include nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, residents can reach out to Pennsylvania American Water’s customer service center at 800-565-7292. Additional information is also available on the company’s website.
