Officials issued a boil water advisory Tuesday in Richmond, Virginia, due to an operational problem at the water plant.
The problem began with a clogging of the plant’s filters, which reduced the ability to produce finished water, according to RVA Mag. The clogging was caused by increased sediment in the water, also known as high turbidity, leading to reduced water pressure in multiple areas throughout the city.
“The State Office of Drinking Water is actively investigating the current water quality issue with the City of Richmond,” Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) posted on X. “I know this is really challenging for everyone following this winter’s problem. We’re told by Richmond officials that they are working diligently to resolve these issues, which have resulted in a boil water advisory affecting several neighborhoods within Richmond. Our teams are providing technical support, and ensuring that precautions are in place to protect public health.”
Residents are advised to boil water and to conserve water, and some customers may experience a total loss of water service. Affected neighborhoods include Byrd Park, Brookland Park, Carver, Carytown, Chamberlayne, the Fan, Ginter Park, Jackson Ward, Laburnum Park, the Museum District, North Side, Oregon Hill, Randolph, Scott’s Addition, VCU’s Monroe Park campus, and Windsor Farms.
RICHMOND UTILITY DIRECTOR RESIGNS AT WATER CRISIS UNDER INVESTIGATION
The VCU Medical Center, the largest hospital in Richmond, began advising patients about the boil water advisory around 1:30 p.m.
In January, the water treatment experienced a power failure, with reports showing that the plant dealt with deteriorating equipment, outdated emergency planning, and a lack of standard operating procedures.
Barnini Chakraborty contributed to this story.
