Lake Tahoe Issues Water Advisory
Earlier this week, residents of a wealthy village in Lake Tahoe were advised to boil their water due to possible fecal contamination. Incline Village, located on the Nevada side of the lake, received letters from officials warning of a "high potential" that their drinking water was tainted with feces.
Cause of Contamination Warning
The notice explained:
"Incline Village water system experienced an event that resulted in loss of pressure in the distribution system, which may cause backpressure or movement of water from outside the pipe to the inside through cracks, breaks or joints in the distribution system. Such a system failure carries with it a high potential that fecal contamination or other disease-causing organisms could enter the distribution system."
Background and Response
- The alert followed a water leak last month that raised concerns about feces entering the supply.
- Untreated water entering the system may be contaminated with feces.
- Emergency repairs began immediately, with some homes experiencing temporary water shutoffs.
Health Risks of Fecal Contamination
Feces in public water pose serious health risks due to possible bacteria such as E.coli. Symptoms often include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping. In severe cases, E.coli can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a potentially fatal complication.
Summary
The advisory highlights the critical importance of water system integrity to prevent dangerous contamination that threatens public health in affluent communities.
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