PANGUITCH CITY, Utah – Residents warned not to use culinary water after detecting high potential contamination levels at the Panguitch City water source.
Garfield County Sheriff’s Office said the contamination levels found in the water source exceed the short term dosage level for humans in drinking water.
The water should not be used for any drinking purposes, food preparation, brushing teeth, showering and drinking.
The contamination was caused by a flash flood that passed over the Panguitch City watershed, damaging one of the spring collection boxes, according to GCSO.
The damage allowed mud and contaminants from last year’s Brian Head Fire to get into the local water supply.
The water tanks have been cleaned and crews are now in the process of refilling them, according to GCSO.
Officials hope to be at a “boil order” by the end of the weekend, but for now Panguitch residents should use bottled water.
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office is providing one case of bottled water to each household.
The sheriff’s office added, one case of water per household will also be available (at no charge) from the Silver Eagle, located at 575 South Center.
There is a water truck located at the city park north of town.
Panguitch’s Mayor said residents can bring a five gallon bucket or water jug to fill with culinary water for dish washing, spit baths and other needs.
For more information residents can call the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office at 435-676-2678.