Tropical Storm Helene water recovery updates

Press release from The City of Asheville:

Water Resources launched an investigative sampling program focused on testing for lead and copper from 25 locations across the distribution system, in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Lead exposure is particularly hazardous to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under the age of six. Plumbing in structures built before 1988 have increased potential to be a source of lead exposure if water sits undisturbed in plumbing for 4-6 hours.

For this reason, the Water Resources Department treats water with zinc orthophosphate, which provides corrosion control throughout the water distribution system, including private property plumbing. Due to the piping configuration at the North Fork Water Treatment Plant, Water Resources was unable to treat the raw reservoir water with zinc orthophosphate for approximately 19 days.

Lead sampling results

These samples were sent to an independent, third-party lab, and results indicated detectable lead levels from the pipes in seven schools. All copper levels were well below regulatory limits. It is important to note lead levels were not found in the water source itself, but rather from water traveling through older pipes owned by customers.

Schools with detectable lead levels include:

• County Elementary Schools: Oakley Elementary School, Sand Hill Elementary School, Charles C. Bell Elementary School, Glen Arden Elementary School
• City Elementary Schools: Lucy S. Herring Elementary School, Hall-Fletcher Elementary School
• Participating Private School: Odyssey Community School

At the time of sampling, the schools had been closed and water had been sitting in the pipes for two to three weeks. Since schools reopened, students have not consumed tap water. Bottled water is being provided to students and staff for drinking purposes. In line with EPA recommendations, the schools are implementing protective measures, including installing National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified filters to reduce lead and assessing plumbing for potential sources of exposure.

Out of an abundance of caution, Water Resources also sampled the raw water at North Fork for lead and are awaiting results from a third party contract lab. Source water at North Fork, Mills River and Bee Tree water treatment facilities were last tested for lead and copper in July 2024. All results were below detection limits. Water Resources records going back decades do not show detectable levels of lead in the source water at any time.

Health precautions and recommendations

Lead exposure poses significant health risks, especially for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under the age of 6, if ingested. It is important to note external use such as showering, dishwashing and washing clothes are not at risk for lead exposure. If you have concerns regarding exposure to lead and are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 6 please contact your healthcare provider.

See recommendations to avoid lead exposure until the boil water notice is lifted:

• Use bottled water: Drinking bottled water is the safest way to avoid lead exposure. Bottled water is being distributed throughout the City and County. Free potable water is available at multiple distribution sites across the City and County. Residents are encouraged to use these resources as needed.
• Boil water guidance: If you must use the tap water for consumption it is recommended to run tap water for 30 seconds to two minutes or until a temperature change is noticed each time before boiling. This EPA-recommended flushing practice can reduce potential lead presence in the short term.

Water billing on hold

No water bills are currently being issued, so additional flushing will not incur costs for residents. Moreover, extra flushing will expedite the overall process of restoring corrosion control and lifting the boil water notice sooner.

Free lead testing available

Water Resources will be re-sampling affected schools and private residences over the coming months to monitor progress and verify the effectiveness of corrosion control treatment. Residents, particularly those in homes built before 1988, are strongly encouraged to participate in Asheville’s free lead and copper testing program. To request a testing kit, or for more information on protecting against lead exposure, contact Water Resources at 828-259-5962 or email leadprevention@ashevillenc.gov. Additional information is available online at ashevillenc.gov/leadawareness.

Asheville Water Resources encourages residents to stay informed of safety measures during the ongoing boil water notice. As Asheville continues to recover from Tropical Storm Helene, Water Resources is committed to providing transparent updates and resources to help protect residents’ health and ensure safe drinking water across the community.

For further updates and detailed information on water safety, please visit the Water Services Recovery website.