News Summary
Columbia, SC has alerted residents about elevated chlorite levels in drinking water from the Canal Water Treatment Plant. The city responded quickly by ceasing chlorine dioxide production to safeguard public health. Water from Lake Murray remains safe, and more frequent testing will be implemented to monitor the situation. Although residents are not required to boil water, those with health concerns are advised to consult their healthcare providers. Transparency is a priority for Columbia Water as they work to ensure safety.
Columbia Faces Water Quality Challenge
In the city of Columbia, SC, residents were recently alerted to a brief problem concerning the quality of drinking water coming from the Canal Water Treatment Plant. This facility plays a crucial role in providing safe water for the communities located south of I-20. After routine tests were conducted on December 14, alarming results came to light on December 15, indicating that chlorite levels were unexpectedly high.
What Are Chlorites?
Chlorite is notably a byproduct of chlorine dioxide, a substance utilized to combat bacteria and other organisms that could jeopardize our drinking water. In this instance, samples indicated that chlorite levels hit a concerning 1.33 milligrams per liter, exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 1 milligram per liter, as set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The city quickly swung into action. On discovering the elevated chlorite levels, city officials made the prompt decision to shut down the chlorine dioxide production system at the Canal Water Treatment Plant. This swift response was essential for ensuring that any risk to residents was minimized.
Good News for Lake Murray
Interestingly, water sourced from the Lake Murray Water Treatment Plant was not impacted by the elevated chlorite readings. In a bid to safeguard the community’s water quality, Columbia Water ramped up the pumping from the Lake Murray plant, optimizing resources to maintain a safer water supply.
Continuous Monitoring Introduced
As part of their commitment to safety, Columbia Water has also decided to implement more frequent testing for chlorite levels in the wake of this incident. The city insists there’s no need for alarm at this time. Residents are currently not required to boil their water or take any additional actions.
Health Precautions
For those with specific health concerns, the city has recommended consulting healthcare providers, especially for those most vulnerable, including infants, children, and pregnant women. Prolonged exposure to chlorite could potentially affect the nervous systems of infants and children and may even pose risks to fetuses. Additionally, excessive exposure could lead to anemia in some individuals, making it even more critical to monitor the situation closely.
Transparency and Public Notices
Under regulations, the city is obligated to provide public notice within 30 days of receiving any violation notice from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services. This instance originated from a notice dated February 21, 2025. Residents will find an official notice posted online, ensuring everyone is kept in the loop.
Columbia Water assures customers that they have the right to stay informed about matters affecting their water quality and the corrective actions taken in response. For individuals who have questions or require information in Spanish, the Customer Care Center is available at 803-545-3300.
Commitment to Safety and Public Confidence
The updates regarding this water quality issue were shared on a Friday, underlining the city’s commitment to transparency and proactive communication with residents. Columbia Water’s quick response reflects a dedication to ensuring the health and safety of all individuals relying on their services.
As the city moves forward, continuous monitoring and updates will be key in restoring and maintaining confidence in the water supply. Residents can feel reassured knowing that their local officials are taking swift measures to address any concerns and safeguard their drinking water.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Columbia Water Quality Violation
- WLTX: Spring Lake Apartments Fire
- ScienceDirect: Chlorite Contamination
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chlorite
- Google Search: Water Quality South Carolina
