On Nov. 18, 2024, the City of Asheville Water Resources Department officially lifted the Boil Water Notice first issued after Hurricane Helene in late September. Laboratory results from sampling conducted Nov. 16-17 confirmed that the water supply is free from contaminants.
According to EPA, it is no longer advised for customers to use bottled water for consumption. Because Asheville Water Resources expects an initial increase in demand, customers are encouraged to temporarily avoid large-volume activities like filling bathtubs, watering landscaping, filling swimming pools and taking abnormally long showers. Otherwise, normal usage for consumption (drinking and cooking), hygiene (bathing and handwashing) and dishwashing may resume.
Prior to Helene, it was advisable for customers, especially those with plumbing installed before 1988, to flush cold water from the tap for 30 seconds to two minutes before gathering water for consumption. Customers are now advised to resume that process daily. Appliances with filters, such as icemakers and hot water heaters that have been turned off, can now be turned back on.
EPA said customers should refer to manufacturer’s instructions on restarting appliances if they were inactive for an extended period. For progress updates on Water Resources’ recovery from Helene, visit ashevillenc.gov/helene/water-services-recovery or call 828-251-1122.
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