Pacific Palisades Residents Gain Access to Safe Drinking Water After Toxic Contamination

LOS ANGELES, California — Residents of Pacific Palisades can now safely use their tap water for drinking and cooking following extensive contamination from the recent Palisades Fire. Mayor Karen Bass announced the development Tuesday, almost two months after the community was placed under a ‘do not drink’ order due to concerns of carcinogens in the water system.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) initiated a precautionary ‘do not drink’ advisory on January 10, shortly after the wildfire ignited. The order was in response to the detection of benzene, a known carcinogen, in the water supply. Since then, many residents have relied on bottled water for their daily needs.

“We understand how critical clean drinking water is for the health and safety of our residents,” Mayor Bass said during the announcement. “Today marks a significant step in our recovery efforts as we restore access to safe drinking water for our community.”

Recent systematic testing and flushing of the water system have contributed to this progress. Over a dozen volatile organic compounds, primarily benzene, were found in parts of the water distribution system. Specific neighborhoods were identified, although LADWP officials withheld their names as cleanup operations continue.

To keep residents informed, LADWP launched an interactive dashboard that provides updates regarding the restoration status of tap water in Pacific Palisades. Residents can enter their addresses to find detailed information about their specific service zones. The dashboard includes a color-coded status report: green checkmarks indicate completed steps, while blue checkmarks signify ongoing tasks.

“This new online tool puts timely and transparent information at our customers’ fingertips,” said Janisse Quiñones, CEO of LADWP. “We are committed to ongoing communication as we work to lift the ‘do not drink’ notice.”

As of Tuesday, approximately 2,000 structures east of Temescal Canyon Road and south of Bestor Boulevard were clear to use tap water for drinking. However, residents are advised to flush their water lines before consuming tap water again. LADWP provided guidelines on safe flushing practices, recommending that residents wash clothes in cold water, take lukewarm showers, and refrain from using hot water.

In addition to testing and flushing efforts, LADWP has established bottled water distribution points across the Pacific Palisades area, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can find more information by calling (800) 342-5397.

Officials noted that a systematic approach to testing and safety remains in place as they continue to conduct testing in collaboration with the California State Water Resources Control Board. Residents are encouraged to regularly check for updates on the status of their water quality via the LADWP’s online dashboard.

While progress has been made, concerns regarding the fire’s impact on water supply and safety have drawn criticism towards both LADWP and city leadership. Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an independent investigation into the handling of the water supply crisis as scrutiny mounts.

In the wake of the Palisades Fire, which claimed 12 lives and destroyed numerous homes, officials emphasize the importance of keeping residents informed about any further developments in water quality.