The Region of Queens has released more information about the event that caused the boil water advisory.

According to a release, lightning strikes from a passing electrical storm impacted the South Queens Water Treatment Facility on the morning of August 9th. Key infrastructure within the treatment facility was damaged causing disruptions to the treatment process which led to a lack of chlorine disinfection residual across the water distribution network. Staff notified the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and a boil water advisory was issued.

The water treatment facility is operational, and Region of Queens Water Utility Staff are continuing to monitor water quality.

At the time of the incident, the municipality issued a directive for Region of Queens Water Utility Customers to conserve water. That directive was lifted on Aug 10.

Municipal officials say the boil water advisory will remain in effect until at least Aug 24. It won't be lifted they can confirm enough disinfection residual is restored throughout the system and testing is completed as per the Department of Environment.

Consumers are advised to boil water for at least 1 minute before drinking, preparing infant formulas, preparing juices, and ice cubes, washing fruits and vegetables, cooking, dental hygiene, and any other activity of requiring human consumption.

Anyone on municipal water should monitor Region of Queens webpage and social media as well as local media for updates.

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