EPA deploys mobile water testing labs to help Western North Carolina communities recover from Hurricane Helene

EPA deploys mobile water testing labs to help Western North Carolina communities recover from Hurricane Helene

Agency also urges residents to be cautious with heating oil systems

October 17, 2024

"EPA is committed to protecting public health and the environment, and our mobile labs are bringing critical water testing directly to impacted residents," said Acting Southeast Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. "We are working with state and local partners to make sure that families know when their water is safe to drink as they recover from the storm's impact."

Importantly, EPA's mobile laboratories can only accept water samples directly from water utilities, NCDEQ and local health departments - not residents. Private well owners whose wells were flooded or otherwise damaged by the storm are urged to contact their local health department to request testing. EPA is currently processing private well samples from Buncombe County and working to expand this service to additional counties. The agency is testing for total coliform and E. coli, which may indicate fecal contamination and the potential presence of harmful microorganisms.

To date, EPA has tested has accepted more than 375 drinking water samples from water utilities and local health departments. Each of the agency's mobile labs is capable of processing up to 100 water samples daily and responders can expand service as needed by sending samples to the EPA's lab in Athens, Ga. The mobile drinking water lab will remain in Buncombe County until October 19, 2024, and a second lab is en route to Western North Carolina.

In addition to water testing, EPA is collecting orphan fuel and chemical containers. To prevent possible spills to the environment, the agency is removing the contents of fuel oil tanks that have been recovered for recycling and possible disposal. To date, EPA responders have collected more than 800 containers that were displaced as a result of Hurricane Helene.

EPA is also urging homeowners to exercise caution as temperatures drop, and they restart their heating oil systems. If your heating oil system has been damaged by flooding, please follow these steps:

• Ensure Safety:Do not attempt to retrieve a displaced oil tank on your own, as it may pose significant safety risks and lead to fuel spills.
• Contact Emergency Services:Notify local emergency services if you suspect a fuel spill or any other hazards.
• Reach Out to Your Heating Oil Company:Report any issues to your oil supplier to have the system inspected by a professional before reuse.
• Arrange for Tank Removal or Replacement:Your oil company will help retrieve the tank and assess any environmental impact, with potential tank replacement if necessary.

Residents should also familiarize themselves with local regulations on oil spill reporting and consult their insurance providers regarding coverage for damages.

For more information on the mobile lab and water testing updates, visit EPA Hurricane Helene Response.