Florence Water System Experiencing Low Pressure
The water system in Florence is currently undergoing significant pressure problems due to the arrival of organic material in the local water source. The issue occurred as a result of recent flooding caused by Hurricane Debby upstream of the city’s raw water intake along the Pee Dee River.
Water Supply Disruption
The city’s water treatment plant started taking in water containing high organic material due to the flooding. The available chemical levels for water treatment were unable to maintain the city’s capacity to produce potable water. Consequently, the Florence water system is now experiencing low pressure, causing multiple inconveniences for residents and businesses across the city.
Some establishments like the El Agave Mexican restaurant and the Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation Library were forced to close early due to this issue. The city’s water plant also had to shut down temporarily to allow the organic materials from the river to pass by the water intake.
City’s Response
In response to this issue, city utilities staff have begun the process of draining the facility. They plan to resume the operation of pulling and treating water from the river once the draining is complete. However, customers are warned that they might experience low to no water pressure and the potential for some discoloration in their water supply.
Additional Measures
As the water pressure in the system decreases, a slight chance of bacteriological contamination arises. To address these risks, the city has issued an advisory to water customers about potential bacteria in the water. As a safety measure, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services directs residents to vigorously boil their water for a minute prior to drinking or cooking.
Moreover, residents are advised not to use ice from water that hasn’t been boiled for drinking purposes. A repeal of the boil-water advisory is expected to be issued as early as the next day, assuming that the water is declared safe to drink upon testing. A notification will be disseminated to city water customers once the advisory is repealed.
Call for Public Patience
The city urges the public to remain patient during this period as the issue is addressed. They assure residents that they are working tirelessly to resolve the matter at the earliest to alleviate the resulting inconveniences.
