Flood Recovery
Water Safety After a Flood: Boil Advisories, Wells, Cleanup, and Contamination
What to know about water safety after flooding, including boil advisories, private wells, bottled water, cleanup, and contamination risks.
Quick answer: After a flood, water that looks clear can still be contaminated, so follow local advisories before drinking, cooking, or cleaning with it.
Public water
Follow boil water notices and local utility instructions.
Use bottled water if officials say tap water is unsafe.
Private wells
Flooded wells may need inspection, disinfection, and testing before use.
Do not assume water is safe because the pump works.
Cleanup water
Floodwater can contain sewage, fuel, chemicals, debris, and sharp objects.
Wear protection and keep children away from contaminated areas.