City of Asheville Conducting Lead Testing to Ensure Clean Water is Potable

The boil water advisory for city residents in Asheville has been lifted following the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Helene. City officials conducted tests for multiple types of bacteria, which came back clean, allowing the advisory to be lifted. Some customers with plumbing installed before 1988 are advised to run taps before consuming. The North Fork Reservoir, which feeds 80% of the city’s customers, suffered damage initially preventing water distribution. After major efforts to replace water lines, water was available for non-consumption use, but now tap water is safe to consume. The city has resumed corrosion control treatment for pipelines. Residents with plumbing installed before 1988 are encouraged to run taps for lead prevention. City schools’ water tested positive for lead after the storm, but officials assure it was not consumed. Private residents can request lead testing kits and services. Community care stations for water distribution, laundry, and showers will remain available for the foreseeable future. Consider supporting journalism like this through a subscription to the Asheville Citizen Times.

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