Residents advised to boil drinking water in Borgarnes due to bacterial contamination concerns

Residents of Borgarnes have been advised to boil their drinking water due to potential bacterial contamination detected in water from Seleyri in Borgarfjörður. Authorities have stated that this precautionary measure is necessary until further information is available. Other areas in Borgarbyggð receive their water from different sources and are not affected.

The water supply for Borgarnes comes from three sources: Grábrók, Hafnarfjalli, and Seleyri. The water from Grábrók and Hafnarfjalli is treated and does not show any signs of contamination, as indicated in the announcement from the water utility.

Authorities, along with the health inspection agency of Vesturland, are conducting more tests to ascertain the situation. Initial test results are expected later today. Residents of Borgarnes are particularly urged to boil their water for at least one minute as a safety measure. Detailed guidance is available on the MAST website.

A sample taken two days ago indicated possible contamination, prompting immediate response measures. The health inspection agency has begun re-sampling to confirm the presence of bacteria in the water. Although preliminary findings suggest contamination, results can vary, and officials are taking additional samples to verify the situation.

It is crucial for residents to continue boiling their drinking water until new information is released. The local health authority is closely collaborating with the public health doctor in the area to manage the situation. No confirmed cases of illness related to the contamination have been reported yet.