The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) issued a clear warning to residents in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas: “Do not drink or cook with the tap water… Do not treat the tap water yourself.” This alert comes as the community continues to cope with the devastation caused by the wildfires. Experts fear that toxic chemicals from the fires may have infiltrated the local water supply. Additionally, filtering or boiling the water will not remove these harmful substances.
Water System Damage and Chemical Contamination
In addition to LADWP’s warning, Pasadena Water and Power issued a similar notice. They reported damage to vital infrastructure, such as pumps and storage tanks, raising concerns that dangerous chemicals could have entered the water pipes. “Out of the abundance of caution, you kind of have to assume the worst,” said Stacie Takeguchi, the utility’s chief assistant general manager. After conducting tests, most areas were cleared of the warning.
How Fires Contaminate Water
When wildfires devastate urban areas, they can severely damage critical water systems. According to Andrew Whelton, an engineering professor at Purdue University, fires can suck in ash, soot, smoke, and other debris into water pipes. These elements mix with toxic chemicals released by burning building materials, making the water hazardous. Many of these materials are chemically engineered, and even small amounts of the resulting chemicals can be harmful.
The Role of Water Pressure and Pipe Damage
Water systems rely on internal pressure to prevent contaminants from entering. However, during a fire, this pressure is often compromised. Several factors contribute to this loss of pressure, such as high water demand from residents, heavy water usage by firefighters, and damage to pipes. Power outages during fires also cause pumps to stop working, worsening the situation. Greg Pierce, a professor at the University of California, noted, “It’s really hard, if not impossible, to keep up the power supply to the whole water system in the event of a fire.” This issue was also observed during the 2023 Maui fires, where power loss contributed to water contamination.
Health Risks from Contaminated Water
Toxic chemicals in fire-contaminated water pose significant health risks. Experts warn that exposure can lead to nausea, blood disorders, and even long-term conditions like cancer. Dr. Lynn Goldman, dean of the Milken Institute School of Public Health, referenced the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, where benzene levels in the water were dangerously high. Even low concentrations of benzene are concerning over time. In California, state regulators set the safe level of benzene in drinking water at one part per billion over 70 years of exposure.
The Long Recovery Process
It may take months to confirm the safety of water in affected areas. While some utilities are already testing for contaminants, it takes time to declare water safe to drink. In areas with extensive damage, such as Paradise, the recovery process could stretch over years. The city is working to replace 10,000 service lines and rebuild its reservoir, with an expected cost of $50 million.
Experts like Andrew Whelton recommend that residents avoid paying for private water tests until the utility confirms that the public water system is safe. He pointed out that most home water tests cannot detect contamination caused by fires.
What Residents Should Do
Therefore, residents should follow official guidance on water use until the water supply is declared safe. They should refrain from drinking, cooking, or bathing with the water until the all-clear is given. Homeowners should wait for the utility to confirm that the public system is free from contaminants before testing their own pipes.
As Los Angeles continues to fight both the wildfires and their aftermath, the focus remains on ensuring enough water for firefighting efforts while addressing long-term contamination risks. In the meantime, residents must stay informed and follow official updates to safeguard their health.
