City News
Heavy Rainfall Expected to Cause Cloudy Drinking Water
Metro Vancouver Notice18 November 2009
As a result of extremely heavy rains that have fallen on the steep mountains above Metro Vancouver’s water supply lakes, it is possible that tap water will become cloudy or coloured within the next 24 hours.
Cloudiness, or turbidity, occurs when sediment or organic material is washed into the region’s reservoirs by the runoff from heavy rainfall.
As turbidity increases, it has been reported that there is the potential for an increase in gastrointestinal illness.
Disinfection levels have been increased as a precaution and Metro Vancouver continues to monitor water quality closely.
In anticipation of increased turbidity, residents may wish to set aside a supply of tap water in containers.
Water quality updates will be posted to Metro Vancouver's website - www.metrovancouver.org.
For more information on weekdays, please contact the Metro Vancouver Information Centre, at 604-432-6200.
