NPS - National Park Service

09/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2024 15:00

Boil water advisory issued for Kalaloch area; Olympic National Park crews work to restore water services after valve failure

Date:
September 19, 2024
Contact:Public Affairs Office, 360-565-3005

Port Angeles, Wash. - Due to a drop in pressure in the potable water distribution system, Olympic National Park is issuing a boil water advisory for the Kalaloch Lodge, campground, and all park facilities in the Kalaloch area today, September 19. Water samples have been collected and the boil water advisory is expected to be lifted within 24 to 48 hours.

Olympic National Park utilities crews contained a leak in a main water line servicing the Kalaloch area this morning. There is currently no water available at the Kalaloch Ranger Station and employee apartments. Water services will not be restored to these facilities until the repairs are complete. Portable toilets have been ordered to serve visitors and employees.

Once the parts for a permanent repair are acquired and the repair is complete, the water will be tested again. The boil water advisory will end when water quality tests confirm the water is potable.

Boiling water kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. To ensure water is safe to use, follow these steps:

  • Bring all water to a rolling boil for one minute. Let it cool before using.

  • Use boiled or purchased bottled water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation.

On September 19, Olympic National Park crews were making improvements to a utility corridor when they noticed a leak in a main section of the water distribution system. As they paused to assess and report the leak, the valve connection failed. Crews worked to contain the leak and limit the loss of water to just the ranger station and employee apartments. The entire water system distributes potable water to the Kalaloch Lodge, the campground, and national park buildings in the Kalaloch area.