May 15, 2009
Water and ice climb stairs in Kwethluk May 7 (photo courtesey of Jack Hopstad, LKSD)
Don't let rising water bring you down
Spring has finally arrived to the Delta! After months of below zero temperatures and blowing snow, the weather has finally warmed up. It's time to get your rain boots out because break up is here. Unfortunately, this time of year can also mean flooding!
Flooding has been especially severe in some communities along the Kuskokwim and Yukon rivers this year, some causing serious damage and forcing evacuations.
Besides damage to property, flooding can also do serious damage to health. Floods can leave behind dangerous molds and bacteria. Stay away from water coming from overflowing sewage lagoons. Don't drink water from a personal well if the top of the well has been submerged in a flood until it has been treated. We have to be EXTRA careful this time of year to make sure our drinking water is safe.
If you have any questions, you can call the YKHC Office of Environmental Health at 1-800-478-6599.
