SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Springfield Water and Sewer Commission is informing residents of the high levels of haloacetic acids (HAA5) in drinking water samples taken in early December.
Samples taken on December 2 show that the maximum contaminant level for HAA5 was exceeded at eight sampling locations. Levels of HAA5 in drinking water have increased in surrounding areas due to heavy rainfall in summer and annual reservoir renewal in fall.
Authorities are advising residents that the levels of HAA5 detected do not pose an immediate danger to human health and that you can continue to consume or use the water normally. If HAA5 levels became a public health emergency, clients would be notified within 24 hours of detection.
HAA5 is formed when chlorine reacts with natural dissolved organic matter found in surface water bodies, possibly the Cobble Mountain Reservoir, which is the primary source of drinking water. The higher than average precipitation we received in July and August last summer likely caused an increase in the amount of natural organic matter in the water.
The next direct debit will take place in March 2022.