Be Prepared!  The Connecticut Department of Public Health, Drinking Water Section recommends that public water systems across the State take precautions against the potential for severe natural disasters and emergency events, such as a major hurricane.  The resources below will assist you in preparation and response to a potential severe weather event.

• Natural Disaster Emergency Preparedness Guidelines

• Flood and Storm Water Advisory

• Public Water Supply Consumer and Private Well Information

• Hurricane/Natural Emergency Information Links

   

Flood and Storm Water Advisory

During and after periods of significant rainfall and excessive flooding, the Department experiences a significant increase in water quality violations among the State’s Public Water Systems involving bacteria. All wells susceptible to flooding should be used only after its quality is verified. All wells that have been flooded, either in pits or low-lying areas, should be properly disinfected, and tested prior to consumption. The Department has provided an updated Flood and Storm Water Advisory for Public Water Systems concerning this issue.

• Flood and storm water advisory for public water systems   

After the Storm... Suggested Post-Hurricane Activities 

• U.S. EPA Suggested Post-Hurricane Activities for Water and Wastewater Utilities

Public Water Supply Consumer and Private Well Information:

• Hurricanes, especially if accompanied by a tidal surge or flooding, can contaminate the public water supply. Drinking contaminated water may cause illness. You cannot assume that the water in the hurricane-affected area is safe to drink.

• In the area hit by a hurricane, water treatment plants may not be operating; even if they are, storm damage and flooding can contaminate water lines. Listen for public announcements about the safety of the municipal water supply.

• If your well has been flooded, it needs to be tested and disinfected after the storm passes and the floodwaters recede. Click here for information on well disinfection and here for a list of certified environmental laboratories.

Hurricane/Natural Disaster Emergency Information Links:

• Connecticut's Office Of  Emergency Management -  CT OEM is the primary agency responsible for preparation of state and local plans to protect life and property against natural and technological disasters.

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - National Hurricane Center and Tropical Prediction Center

• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention - "Hurricanes and Your Health and Safety" 

• Environmental Protection Agency - Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water

   

• Environmental Protection Agency - "Is Your Water or Wastewater System Prepared? What You Need to Know About Generators."