SAN ARDO — San Ardo residents are still being advised to avoid drinking water from the town’s water system after testing confirmed the presence of E. coli bacteria.
According to an update from Monterey County Health Department’s Environmental Health Bureau on Jan. 18, the rural community south of King City should not drink the water, use it for food preparation or for brushing teeth.
The water can be used for showering or bathing, but residents should avoid getting any in their mouth or open wounds, the Bureau said.
During the night of Jan. 9, the San Ardo Water District’s system was impacted by the floods. Then, on Jan. 12, E. coli contamination was found in the water.
Follow-up testing on Jan. 13, 15 and 16 were negative for E. coli, which “indicates this has resolved,” the Bureau said. However, other water quality testing for chemicals is pending.
“As a precaution, do not drink the water until all testing has been completed,” the Bureau said. “… The water district has flushed the system to help remove any contamination and is diligently testing the system to make sure this was successful, and water will be safe to drink again.”
Potable water is being provided at the San Ardo Branch Library, 62350 College St., where residents can bring a clean 5-gallon container to fill up.
“Residents will be notified when this advisory is no longer in effect,” the Bureau said.
For more information, questions or concerns, contact the Environmental Health Bureau at 831-755-4505.
