Residents of certain areas in Southern California have been advised to boil tap water or use bottled water for drinking and cooking due to recent wildfires. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) issued a warning for the Pacific Palisades region and nearby communities following heavy ash, debris, and pressure fluctuations caused by firefighting efforts. Additionally, the city of Pasadena has released a similar alert for those affected by the Eaton Fire, recommending only bottled water be used.

Boil Water Advisory for Pacific Palisades and Surrounding Areas

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has instructed residents in the 90272 zip code and adjacent neighborhoods north of San Vicente Blvd to boil tap water before using it for drinking, cooking, or any food preparation activities. This precautionary measure is necessary due to potential contamination from low water pressure resulting from extensive firefighting operations.

Officials emphasized that boiling water for one minute can eliminate harmful organisms such as viruses, parasites, and bacteria that may cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and headaches. The department is working diligently to re-pressurize the system and conduct tests to ensure water quality. Until then, residents are urged to follow these guidelines to safeguard their health. The intense demand on the water supply, reaching four times the normal level, has significantly impacted the area's water distribution system. Janisse Quiñones, LADWP’s chief executive and chief engineer, stressed the importance of water conservation during this critical time, not just in the affected regions but across the entire city, to support firefighting efforts.

Bottled Water Only for Pasadena Residents Affected by Eaton Fire

In response to the Eaton Fire, the city of Pasadena has issued a do-not-drink water notification, advising residents to exclusively use bottled water for all consumption and hygiene purposes. Unlike the advisory in Los Angeles, simply boiling tap water will not make it safe to drink in Pasadena. Authorities have warned against attempting any DIY water treatment methods.

This stringent recommendation applies to drinking, preparing baby formula, brushing teeth, washing dishes, making ice, and food preparation, including for pets and domestic animals. City officials are conducting comprehensive tests to determine when tap water will be safe again, a process expected to take at least 48 hours according to public safety protocols. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and adhere strictly to these guidelines to protect their health and well-being during this challenging period.