When severe weather strikes, it leaves more than just physical damage in its wake. In the Greater New York State region, the massive “1,000-year storm” in August 18, 2024 caused unprecedented flooding, leaving homeowners with private wells and even municipalities scrambling to recover from the impact that compromised drinking water safety.
Floodwaters can contaminate water supplies, carrying harmful bacteria, “forever chemicals” like PFAS, and other pollutants into wells, reservoirs, and even municipal water systems. For residents in storm-prone areas, regular well water testing is a critical step to ensure their drinking water remains safe.
The Impact of Flooding on Drinking Water
Floodwaters are essentially a cocktail of contaminants, often laden with sewage, industrial chemicals, and runoff from fertilizer used in agriculture. When heavy rains overwhelm drainage systems, rivers, and reservoirs, these pollutants can infiltrate water supplies in multiple ways:
- Contamination of Private Wells
Private wells are particularly vulnerable during flooding. Surface water can seep into the well casing, introducing bacteria like E. coli, nitrates from fertilizers, and other harmful substances. Without testing, homeowners may unknowingly consume unsafe water for weeks or months after the flood.
- Disruption of Municipal Water Systems
Even municipal water systems, designed to handle some degree of flooding, can fail during severe storms. Overflowing treatment plants or breaches in reservoirs can introduce pathogens or chemicals into the water supply.
And there are municipal water systems that supply drinking water to residents from wells. In August 2024, the Westchester County Department of Health (WCDOH) detected contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – commonly referred to as “forever chemicals’ – in several drinking water wells in Pound Ridge, with levels greater than New York State standards.
- Chemical Runoff and Industrial Spills
Flooding near industrial areas, manufacturing sites or farmlands can amplify the risk of contamination. Chemical storage facilities may leak, and pesticides or fertilizers can be swept into nearby water sources, introducing long-lasting pollutants.
- Septic System Failures
In rural and suburban areas, flooding can lead to septic tank overflows, further increasing bacterial contamination in nearby groundwater and wells.
Lessons from the August Storm
The August storm brought record-breaking rainfall to New York state, with rivers cresting well beyond their banks. Municipalities reported overwhelmed wastewater treatment plants, while thousands of private well owners were left wondering if their water was still safe to drink.
In one town localized flooding caused a temporary shutdown of the municipal water system. Residents were advised to boil their water and bottled water was supplied in the emergency. But for those with private wells, there was no official guidance until weeks later, highlighting the importance of proactive testing—especially in areas prone to extreme weather.
Why Regular Water Testing Matters
Flooding is unpredictable, but preparing for its effects can make all the difference. Testing your water regularly ensures that contaminants are identified and addressed before they can cause harm. Here are some key reasons to prioritize testing:
- Health Risks: Contaminants like E. coli, nitrates, and heavy metals can cause immediate and long-term health issues, particularly for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
- Hidden Contamination: Even if water appears clear and tastes fine, it may still harbor harmful bacteria or chemicals.
- Cost Savings: Addressing contamination early can prevent more costly repairs or serious health complications down the line.
Steps to Protect Private Wells for Drinking Water After a Flood
- Test your Water Immediately
After any significant flooding, private well owners should test for bacteria, nitrates, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Municipal water users should follow any boil water advisories and consider additional testing for peace of mind.
- Disinfect Your Well
If tests reveal contamination, consult a water treatment professional to potentially disinfect the well with approved methods to help restore safety.
- Install Preventive Measures
Protect your well with a watertight cap and ensure the casing extends above ground to minimize future contamination risks. Keep the surrounding area clean and free of potential pollutants, such as fertilizers or chemicals.
- Retest Regularly
Flooding can have long-term effects on water quality. Regular testing—at least annually—is essential to monitor changes.
- Leverage Tools and Resources – Well Water Testing NY
Use tools like the New York State Department of Health’s Private Well Risk Mapper to identify potential contamination risks in your area. Knowledge of local hazards, including PFAS hotspots, is critical to protecting your water supply.
Be Ready to Take Action
No matter what nature throws our way, floods like the one in August reinforce the critical need to safeguard our drinking water, especially for those with private wells.
Learn more about well water testing in NY, we specialize in comprehensive private water testing, including lead, E. coli, and PFAS and all major contaminants. Our advanced methods and responsive team ensures accurate and fast results. Whether you’re dealing with everyday maintenance or addressing contamination concerns, our testing experts are here to help and to answer any questions you have.
