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Corpus Christi Struggles Without Tap Water After Chemical Leak

CORPUS CHRISTI - Most Corpus Christi residents still can’t use tap water after the city’s water system was contaminated. On Wednesday, the entire city was told to stop using tap water after officials learned asphalt chemicals leaked into the supply.

Customers of the City of Corpus Christi were notified on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 of a problem with our drinking water and were advised to avoid all contact and usage of tap water until further notice. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality now have additional information regarding this situation to share with customers.

Three zones have been identified for the City of Corpus Christi:

  • Zone 1 is defined as the area where the residents can resume using tap water for drinking, cooking and bathing.
  • Zone 2 is defined as a limited use zone. Tap water may be used for bathing, flushing toilets and washing clothes. However, infants, young children and those who are immuno-compromised should still avoid bathing in or consuming the water. Zone 2 should not use tap water for cooking, drinking or food preparation.
  • Zone 3 is where the DO NOT USE advisory remains in full effect. Residents should not use the tap water for anything, although toilets can be flushed.

David Martin Davies can be reached at dmdavies@tpr.org and on Twitter at @DavidMartinDavi