Boil Water Notice in Pinellas County
A boil water notice has been issued for residents of Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, and Tierra Verde in Pinellas County, Florida. The precautionary advisory follows a blown transformer that disrupted water services and pressure in the coastal communities.
- The boil water advisory impacts an estimated population of over 19,000 residents across Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, and Tierra Verde. - The notice was issued by Pinellas County Utilities at 10 p.m. on a Wednesday after a blown transformer near the Isle of Capri pump station caused a drop in water pressure. - Low water pressure can create a vacuum-like effect in the water mains, potentially drawing in bacteria and other contaminants through small cracks or joints in the pipes. - The Isle of Capri pump station is a critical component of the water infrastructure for these barrier island communities. - To rescind the notice, Pinellas County Utilities must conduct bacteriological testing to confirm the water is safe for consumption. This process typically takes 48 to 72 hours. - Residents are advised to bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, making ice, or brushing teeth. - As an alternative to boiling, residents can disinfect water by adding 1/8 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water and letting it stand for at least 30 minutes. - Once the advisory is lifted, it is recommended to flush household pipes by running taps for a few minutes.
