The Columbia Shuswap Regional District has issued a boil water advisory for the Sorrento water system.

High turbidity levels, which is cloudiness due to suspended sediment, have been detected in the Sorrento Water System鈥檚 drinking water supply.

High turbidity levels may occur in surface water sources due to seasonal weather changes causing excessive surface runoff, flooding or lake turnover.

This may impair the effectiveness of the disinfection treatment system. If disinfection is impaired, disease-causing micro-organisms may escape into the water distribution system, resulting in an increase risk of intestinal illness.

The CSRD and Interior Health recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and anyone seeking additional protection to drink boiled water or a safe alternative.

For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean covered container. Users could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water than has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.

The advisory is in effect immediately and until further notice from the CSRD.