Winter Storm 2021
San Antonio now under voluntary citywide boil order until further notice
Following one of the most unprecedented weather events in Texas history, San Antonio is now under a voluntary, citywide water boil notice, authorities announced late February 17.
The San Antonio Water System is asking residents to boil all water used for drinking, cooking, and ice making, adding that they "believe that it is in the best interest of our customers" to issue the notice. Residents should continue boiling water until further notice.
SAWS said that the 100-plus hours that the water treatment plants have spent offline due to the power shortage, mixed with dropping pressure and below-freezing temps, was the reason for the cautionary measure.
"We apologize for the inconvenience. Rest assured we are working around the clock to resolve the issues and restore full service to all our customers," the utility organization said in a statement.
According to SAWS, residents are advised to:
- Bring water to a vigorous rolling boil for at least two minutes prior to drinking, cooking, or making ice.
- Use bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source for drinking water or human consumption purposes.
If you are without power, SAWS suggests disinfecting water by adding one-eighth of a teaspoon of household bleach per gallon of water. Shake or mix well and let sit for 30 minutes before consuming. The utility also suggests using camp stoves, fish fryers, barbecue pits, and grills to boil water, but cautions only using them outside.
