PORT ANGELES – A “Do Not Drink” order issued early Sunday morning for all City of Port Angeles water utility customers was lifted by 5:15 p.m. the same day after water samples confirmed the system was safe.
The order, in effect for approximately nine hours, followed a July 18 fuel tanker accident at Indian Creek, which feeds into the Elwha River—Port Angeles’ primary drinking water source. Although the spill occurred outside city limits, city officials temporarily shut down the Elwha Water System Intake out of caution and served the community using stored reservoir water.
By early Sunday morning, July 20, reservoir levels had dropped to a critical low. To maintain water pressure throughout the system, the City resumed processing water and issued the “Do Not Drink” advisory while testing was conducted.
Water samples were analyzed by the Washington State Department of Health in coordination with the Department of Ecology and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Multiple test results showed no presence of fuel-related contaminants.
Voluntary water conservation remains in effect as the City continues to replenish its reservoirs.
“We are very grateful to our community for stepping up to conserve water over the weekend, and for the countless City staff, volunteers, community partners, and state and local agencies who came together to ensure drinking water was available to residents when it was needed,” said City Manager Nathan West.
On Sunday, the City distributed approximately 81 pallets of bottled water to affected customers. Police, fire, parks, and public works personnel also hand-delivered water to critical facilities, including Olympic Medical Center, and to homebound residents. City staff supported operations at the public distribution sites.