SAN ANGELO, TX - The City of San Angelo has received its second notice this year from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for exceeding the EPA’s maximum contaminant levels for total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) in its drinking water supply.
The violations occurred in the third and fourth quarters of 2024.
TTHMs, a group of volatile organic compounds formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter during water treatment, can pose long-term health risks, including effects on the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, as well as an increased cancer risk. Levels measured exceeded the EPA limit of 0.080 milligrams per liter at various locations, with the highest reading recorded at 0.239 mg/L during the third quarter.
City officials stated that these elevated levels occurred before the groundwater treatment facility, which has been offline for nearly a year due to construction, is expected to resume operations. The expanded facility is anticipated to restore compliance with EPA standards.
During the downtime, the city relied solely on treated surface water, which contributed to the elevated TTHM levels. In response, city crews are flushing aged water from fire hydrants and closely monitoring water quality.
Residents do not need to seek alternative water supplies but are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns.
For more information, contact John Kaufman, San Angelo Water Utilities Director, at 325-657-4209.
The city will continue updates as it works toward resolving the issue.
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