The Edgewater area has been placed under a water quality advisory with the onset of spring freshet and a rise in turbidity.
RDEK officials said the advisory was enacted on May 17, and will remain until conditions improve.
“The onset of the warmer weather this week has kicked off the annual spring freshet and the melting of some of the higher elevation snow,” said RDEK General Manager of Engineering and Environmental Services, Kevin Paterson.
“This melt causes water levels in area waterways to rise and the water often becomes cloudier as increased sediment and debris get picked up. These particles in the water are referred to as turbidity and can have an impact on water disinfection and treatment.”
Paterson said high turbidity is normal for this time of year.
“As we often do at this time of year, we are seeing rising turbidity levels on our Edgewater Water System and, as a result, have issued a Water Quality Advisory effective today [May 17, 2024],” said Paterson.
The RDEK and Interior Health said children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection should drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice.
“For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled at a rolling boil for one minute,” said RDEK officials.
The advisory will stay in place until conditions improve.
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