According to city officials, a power outage at a water treatment facility earlier Monday morning caused a pump failure.
“Dominion Energy always prioritizes power restoration for critical infrastructure during storms,” a spokesperson said. Officials say the city is tapping into a land reservoir in the 5th council district, but it will soon be empty. They could not answer how long the reserve will last, but there is a plan for fire emergencies.
The city issued an immediate boil water advisory for all residents. Crews are working to restore water pressure by this evening, but the advisory will not be lifted for another 24 to 48 hours because of testing.
Residents to follow these water safety guidelines:
• Do not drink from water fountains in parks or public and private buildings connected to the Richmond water supply.
• Do not use tap water to prepare drinks, juices, or fountain soft drinks.
• Wash fruits and vegetables with boiled or bottled water instead of tap water.
• Use boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth.
• Only cook with tap water if the food will be boiled vigorously for at least three minutes.
• Throw away any ice made from tap water and sanitize ice machines or trays. This includes ice and water dispensed directly from refrigerators.
• Use boiled water for washing dishes or opt for disposable plates and utensils until the advisory is lifted.
Effective water conservation tips for residents of Richmond :
1) Eliminate or shorten shower times.
2) Avoid unnecessary toilet flushes,
3) Avoid washing clothes for as long as possible.
4) Postpone washing dishes if possible.
5) Check all faucets, showerheads and under cabinets for drips.
Most affected areas of Richmond :
April Bingham, Director of the Department of Public Utilities, said Districts 2, 3, 5, and 6 may be particularly affected by low water pressure but some may experience a total loss of water service, while others may experience varying degrees of loss in water pressure, anywhere in the city.
There is a humble request to all of you to shre this information with everyone in your household, local friends and family, and help as people as you can .
FAQs:
Q:Is it safe to drink tap water in Richmond, VA?
A:Yes, tap water in Richmond, Virginia, is generally considered safe to drink. The city’s water supply is sourced primarily from the James River, and it is treated and monitored by the Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU).
Q:How do you know when a boil water advisory is over?
A:A boil water advisory is lifted when local authorities determine that the water is safe to drink again, following specific tests and evaluations. Here’s how you know when a boil water advisory is over: Official notification , Water testing , Clear instructions.
Q:What happens if you ignore a boil water advisory?
A:Key Risks from Ignoring a Boil Water Advisory: Gastrointestinal infections (diarrhea, vomiting) ; Increased risk of dehydration, especially in children and elderly individuals ; Potential for more severe infections that could require medical treatment.
Q:Is it safe to visit Richmond VA?
A:Yes, Richmond, Virginia, is generally considered safe to visit, though, like any city, safety can vary by neighborhood and the time of day. here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Crime , Public Health , Weather , Transportation , Tourists Attraction.