SAN ANGELO, Texas — The City of San Angelo was notified by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that the drinking water being supplied to its customers has exceeded the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes.
Levels in San Angelo's drinking water supply were analyzed and tested in the range of 0.081-0.083 mg/L, which exceeds the maximum contamination level of 0.080 milligrams per liter, set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Elevated trihalomethane levels occurred as a result of using solely surface water in COSA's treated water supply. Normally, the City blends treated surface water with treated groundwater, which is less likely to form high levels of trihalomethanes; however the groundwater treatment facility has been offline while the groundwater system is expanded.
The groundwater system expansion is nearing completion, a release from COSA said Wednesday morning.
Studies show people who drink water containing trihalomethanes more than the maximum contamination level over many years have an increased risk of developing cancer and issues with the liver, kidney or central nervous system. The TCEQ encourages anyone concerned with their health to consult their doctor to get more information about how this may affect them.
No action needs to be taken by citizens. It is not necessary to use an alternative water supply or boil water– the City of San Angelo says it is closely monitoring disinfection byproduct levels.
For a full look at the city's release, click here.