Boil-water advisory could last 2 days for large swath of Halifax Regional Municipality

Halifax Water has issued a boil-water advisory affecting over 200,000 customers in the Halifax Regional Municipality, which could last up to two days. The affected communities include Beaver Bank, Middle and Lower Sackville, Upper Hammonds Plains, Bedford, Fall River, Halifax, Timberlea, Spryfield, and Herring Cove. The advisory was put in place due to a power outage at the JD Kline (Pockwock) Lake Water Treatment Facility on Monday evening, resulting in unchlorinated drinking water entering the system.

Although water can still be used, residents are advised to boil it for at least one minute before using it for drinking, preparing infant formula, making ice cubes or juices, washing fruits or vegetables, cooking, brushing teeth, or anything for human consumption. A map is available for residents to check if their address is under a boil-water order. Halifax Water is monitoring the water quality in consultation with the provincial Environment Department and the medical officer of health.

Jeff Myrick, communications manager for Halifax Water, explained that the power outage caused an electrical issue at the treatment facility, resulting in a lack of chlorine disinfection for approximately 30 minutes. The utility is working to address the issue and ensure water quality is maintained. This incident is reminiscent of a similar one last July, where an electrical issue led to a boil-water advisory.

Businesses and schools in the affected areas have been advised to take precautions, with water fountains at schools being taped off and signs posted on all taps. Bottled water will be provided to ensure the safety of individuals. Halifax Water is working to install a system to automate the transition to chlorine redundancy to prevent such incidents in the future.

Despite the inconvenience caused by the boil-water advisory, Halifax Water is working diligently to rectify the situation and ensure the safety of its customers. Residents are encouraged to follow the advisory guidelines and stay updated on any developments. The utility is committed to resolving the issue promptly and minimizing the impact on the community.