Pasadena Water Update: Information from PWP Regarding Tap Water Safety
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share some information I received after speaking to the Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) 24-hour emergency line regarding the current water situation earlier this afternoon. We’re located at Holliston and Washington in Bungalow Heaven, which falls within the gray-shaded area on the map of affected zones, and this information is in particular specifically for my address that I provided to PWP over the phone. Your situation may be different, even if you are also in the grey-shaded area. I still recommend that you seek information particular to your address at PWP’s 24-hour emergency line at 626-744-4138
Disclaimer: This is based on my understanding of the information I was provided. Please do your due diligence, and if anyone has clarifications or updates, feel free to share here.
Here’s what I understand:
- Water Quality: The water in our lines is currently bypassing the usual filtration process to provide quicker water access for firefighters. This change was made to help fight the fires. Not sure if this is for the fire in Altadena, or in Mt. Wilson.
- Water Safety: PWP advised that as long as the fire continues, our water is unsafe for consumption, even if treated or boiled.
- Boiling Water: I specifically asked if boiling the water would make it safe for tasks like washing dishes, and they advised against it.
- Reverse Osmosis Systems: I have a Waterdrop reverse osmosis tankless system, but they recommended not using it. Reverse osmosis removes metals and minerals but doesn’t address potential toxins in the water.
- Dishwashers/Washing Machines: I was told not to use dishwashers. I didn’t ask about washing machines, but personally, I’m avoiding using mine for now.
- Hand Washing/Showering: PWP said we can use tap water for handwashing and brief showers but to avoid getting water in our mouths or eyes. Again, this is just what I was told—if anyone can confirm or clarify, that would be helpful.
- I took a shower around 8pm yesterday and I was experiencing some dryness in my skin this morning. They advised that this is likely from the smoke, and not from the tap water from my shower.
For now, we’re relying on bottled purified water. To conserve water, we transfer it into pitchers with spouts to control the flow for tasks like handwashing. Use a cup for gargling. Using a watering can or a container with a small opening might help conserve water too.
If you have any concerns, I encourage you to call PWP’s 24-hour emergency line at 626-744-4138. Would appreciate if you can share any findings here. They called me back about three hours after I left a voicemail.
Again, this is just my understanding and not official information, and best is still to verify this information directly with PWP. Please feel free to share any updates or clarifications here to help the community stay informed.
UPDATE: See link below for the map of the affected area.
Below is the official announcement from PWP