Boil Water Advisory Issued for Parts of Georgia’s Chatham and Effingham Counties

GEORGIA — A boil water advisory has been issued for residents in specific areas of Chatham and Effingham counties following a water main break that may have allowed contaminants into the local water supply.

The Georgia Coastal Health District alerted the public about the advisory, which affects residents who get their water from the City of Savannah’s water system in portions of western Chatham County and eastern Effingham County. The warning comes in response to a drop in water pressure that may have allowed untreated water to enter the system.

Which Areas Are Affected?

The advisory does not apply to the entire county but to those served by Savannah’s water system. Impacted residents were notified directly by their water provider. However, the Georgia Coastal Health District clarified that Richmond Hill, Pooler, and Port Wentworth are not included in the advisory.

If you are unsure whether your property is within the affected zone, contact your local water utility for guidance.

What Should Residents Do?

Until further notice, residents in the affected areas are urged to:

• Boil all water for at least one minute before drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula.
• Use bottled water if boiling is not possible.
• Avoid using tap water for brushing teeth or washing produce.
• Do not use ice made from unboiled tap water.

Officials recommend continuing these precautions until water sample testing confirms the water is safe to consume, which may take 24 to 48 hours.

Why Is This Important?

When water pressure drops due to a main break, it increases the risk of bacteria and other contaminants entering the drinking water supply. Boiling water kills harmful organisms and reduces the chance of illness.

The advisory is a precautionary measure, and no contamination has been confirmed yet. Still, health officials say it’s better to take preventive action while test results are pending.

Health Officials and City Responders Are on It

The Georgia Coastal Health District and the City of Savannah are actively monitoring the situation. Crews have already addressed the source of the pressure loss, and multiple water quality samples are being taken and analyzed.

For more information or updates, residents can check with the Georgia Coastal Health District or contact their local water service provider.

Residents are reminded that the boil water advisory will remain in effect until official lab testing confirms the water meets safety standards.

Have you been affected by the advisory in Chatham or Effingham County? Share your experience in the comments and follow SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for more Georgia health and infrastructure updates.