Winter storm can endanger public drinking water
February 27, 2007

The ice storm that hit Iowa this weekend left thousands of customers in scores of communities without electricity. That's caused some public water systems to lose pressure, since most pumps run on electricity, leading the DNR to warn that low water pressure can make water systems unsafe. The big risks come from backflow and infiltration of pipes passing underground. Water (and wastewater) system operators need to consider the availability of backup power systems for their pressure-booster stations and wastewater lift stations. They may not be needed often, but backup systems can be lifesavers in case of events like these.

Related products: engine-driven lift stations, portable engine-driven pumps

Past water and wastewater news updates

last revised February 2007