The City of Victoria is issuing a boil-water notice due to low chlorine levels in the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s water supply.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) tested the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s water July 9 and measured a residual chlorine level of 0.3 ppm, below the 0.5 ppm required by the TCEQ, in the area of John Stockbauer Drive and Miori Lane (chlorine levels can vary throughout a water system). Because the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s water system is interconnected, the City is issuing a citywide boil-water notice in accordance with TCEQ guidelines.
Unlike previous boil-water notices, this notice was not caused by a loss of pressure to the system. Residents will continue to experience normal water pressure.
The City of Victoria Public Works is taking urgent steps to correct the chlorine levels so that the boil-water notice can be removed as soon as possible.
What caused the low chlorine levels? Is it related to the flooding?
No, this problem is not related to the recent flooding of the Guadalupe River.
A recent pattern of decreased consumption and summer temperature increases created a need for additional chlorine that was not being met by our dosage. To correct this problem, our Public Works department is adjusting the treatment process along with a strategic flushing of our water distribution system, including our ground and elevated storage tanks.
What should residents do?
Water for drinking, cooking, and ice making should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes before consumption.
Residents should brush teeth using boiled water or bottled water.
Showering and bathing is safe so long as water does not enter the eyes, nose or mouth.
Dishes can be washed in a dishwasher on sanitation mode or set to 150 degrees.
Water that was taken from the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s system prior to the boil-water notice (such as ice in a freezer) is safe to drink. This is because the boil-water notice was issued before the low chlorine level could lead to potential health issues.
If water is accidentally consumed, residents should drink plenty of clean water and inform a physician if feeling sick.
When will the boil-water notice be lifted?
The boil-water notice will be removed when the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s residual chlorine level rises to 0.5 ppm and when a test of the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s water confirms that the water is safe to drink. The testing process will take at least 24 hours.
Stay informed
Updates about the boil-water notice will be shared on the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s website; on social media; and through the Cityòòò½ÊÓƵ™s Alert Center, which sends updates to residents via call, email or text.
City of Victoria utility customers will receive Alert Center updates automatically. Non-customers can register for the service at . For assistance, contact Communications & Public Affairs at communications@victoriatx.gov or 361-485-3110.
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