Heavy Rainfall in Sweden Causes Sewage to Enter Waterways, Posing Drinking Water Risk
In the past few days, heavy rainfall in Sweden has resulted in sewage entering various waterways, including the Göta River. The treatment plants across the country have been unable to handle the large volume of water, forcing them to discharge some untreated water into lakes and waterways. This poses a risk of contamination, as the untreated water could potentially enter the drinking water systems.
However, the issue is not limited to urban areas. Even in rural regions, heavy downpours can create problems in obtaining clean water from wells. In Sweden, approximately two million people have their own well connected to their houses or summer residences.
Anders Retzner, a hydrogeologist at the Geological Survey of Sweden, advises individuals to first check the location of their wells. He recommends placing wells as high in the terrain as possible and ensuring that surface water does not enter them. It is essential to maintain the well lid to prevent any unwanted contaminants from seeping in.
Retzner further suggests keeping water pools away from the well to safeguard the drinking water quality. In case of contamination, a risk assessment can be conducted by checking the color and smell of the water. Groundwater in the well should be clear. If it appears brown or has an unusual smell, it indicates the presence of surface water.
If surface water enters the well, it is advised to boil the water before using it for food and hygiene purposes until further notice. Alternatively, individuals can send a water sample for analysis to determine if it is safe for consumption. However, the time required for the analysis may vary from municipality to municipality.
It is not just wells that pose a risk during heavy downpours; individual sewers can also be problematic. The wastewater needs to be slowly cleaned as it percolates through the ground. Fast flow rates during heavy rain can impede the cleaning process, increasing the risk of sewage contaminating drinking water sources.
Overall, it is crucial for individuals to stay vigilant and regularly check their well and sewer covers. If the well is submerged in water, it is advisable to boil the drinking water as a precautionary measure. By taking these precautions, individuals can help mitigate the risk of compromised drinking water quality during heavy rainfall events.
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Source: [GP](http://www.gp.se/1.106855634)