PHYS.org – Wildfires can contaminate drinking water distribution systems from treatment plants to consumers, posing substantial and escalating public health risks. Over the past decade, more than 50 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been detected in water distribution systems after wildfires.
Climate change and urbanization are intensifying wildfire risks, exacerbating the threat of drinking water system contamination. These contaminants are rarely monitored in water distribution systems, particularly at the consumer end, and communities often remain unaware of these risks.
To address wildfire-driven drinking water contamination, governments must establish clear guidelines, identify wildfire-related VOCs in drinking water distribution systems, set safety limits and enforce robust monitoring and testing protocols.
