Update on drinking water disruption

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed December 21, 2018 1:00 PM

Summary

At 4:00 AM on December 21, 2018, generators in the City of Nanaimo's water treatment plant suffered a breakdown. Water Treatment Plant operators were able to restore generator power at 6:30 AM however, a number of critical faults within the plant have been interrupting production. While the generator continues to run, operators continue to troubleshoot for faults. There is no estimated time of restoration of the water treatment plant system.

The City's Emergency Operations Centre has been activated and staff are preparing contingency plans in the event that the treatment plant does not return to full operating capacity soon.

While the water is safe to drink, residents and businesses are asked to curtail all water use to preserve supply for fire fighting. Some ways to reduce water consumption is to avoid laundry, showers, bathing, washing cars, running dishwashers and other non-essential uses.

City pools and arenas are closed until further notice. The pools are unable to meet health and safety regulations people are required to shower prior to entering the pool. The arenas are unable to clean the ice.

The City will update as information becomes available. Please check www.nanaimo.ca and follow "CityofNanaimo" on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.

Link to Strategic Plan: n/a

Key Points

City is asking all residents and business to curtail all water use, to preserve supply for fire protection.
There is no estimated time of restoration. Follow the City's social media channels and check www.nanaimo.ca for updates.
In addition to clearing debris from yesterday’s storm, restoring functionality to the water treatment plant is a priority for all City staff.

Quotes

"We want to thank the community for their cooperation and patience during this challenging situation. Crews are working hard to resolve this issue and we will provide updates as information becomes available. Please monitor the City's website and social media channels for updates."

Bill Sims

Director, Engineering and Public Works

City of Nanaimo

Videos

Links

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Contact:

Tracy Loewen

Communication and Marketing Specialist

City of Nanaimo

CityofNanaimoNews@nanaimo.ca

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