St. Croix water declared safe after month of testing following bacterial contamination

St. Croix residents can return to normal water use after the V.I. Water and Power Authority lifted a boil water advisory that had been in place since late August.

The advisory came after E. coli was found in samples taken from the Frederiksted dock water distribution point. Such bacteria signals possible contamination from human or animal waste and poses health risks.

Testing carried out daily since the advisory began has now shown that water quality meets standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources, Government House announced Tuesday. Ongoing monitoring across the territory will continue to ensure compliance.

Residents may now drink, cook with, and use tap water normally for ice-making, tooth-brushing and dishwashing. Officials suggest running cold taps for several minutes before consuming water or cooking, and cleaning aerators and screens on faucets. Any ice makers or water dispensers left unused during the advisory period should be flushed following manufacturer guidance.

Don Gregoire, WAPA's Interim Chief Operating Officer of Water, acknowledged the disruption to customers and thanked them for their patience through the testing phase. He noted that test results support a return to routine water system use.

Customers who received bills for water not actually used during the advisory can request account reviews by contacting WAPA Customer Service at [email protected] or 340-773-2250 option 5.