Residents returning to fire-ravaged parts of Los Angeles—particularly the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Pasadena—are urged to consider their drinking water's safety. 

According to Andrew J. Whelton, a Professor of Civil, Environmental, and Ecological Engineering at Purdue University, wildfires can damage water distribution systems in several ways. High water use by firefighters may lower system pressure, allowing smoke and chemical pollutants to enter pipes. The heat from the fires can melt plastic components, releasing harmful chemicals such as benzene. Once chemicals penetrate pipes, they can linger for weeks or months.

Local water providers have begun issuing advisories and testing water for contaminants. Whelton emphasizes that any subsequent home water testing must be carried out correctly, including proper sample collection, handling, and screening for fire-related chemicals. Residents are encouraged to follow guidance from official sources rather than attempting to treat water independently, as standard filters may not effectively remove heavy contamination. 

Although these concerns may cause delays in reestablishing safe water supplies, historical examples demonstrate that water systems can recover with proper testing and remediation efforts.

Read the full article from The Conversation