Drinking plenty of water might be one of the top tips offered during a heatwave, but that simple act just got a little more complicated for anyone spending time in Whistler this week.
The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and Vancouver Coastal Health on Sunday, June 27 issued a water quality advisory for Whistler properties, with the exception of Emerald Estates and Cheakamus Crossing. The advisory was prompted by turbidity (or cloudy water) conditions in Whistler's biggest water source, 21 Mile Creek. Rapid snow melt as a result of the record-breaking heat pushed the creek's water conditions past the normal shut-off criteria of 1.0 Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU).
"With this major water source off-line during the high water demand situation created by the heat wave, Whistler’s water fire storage levels have been compromised," reads the RMOW's advisory. "In order to recover adequate reservoir levels the RMOW will be operating the 21 Mile Creek Intake at turbidity levels of up to 2.0 NTU."
According to the RMOW, the risk to consumers is low since Whistler's water quality is closely monitored on an ongoing basis, and the chlorination and UV disinfection systems remain fully operational. However, officials are advising some locals and visitors—particularly those with weakened immune systems—to take extra precautions until Whistler's turbidity levels return to below the normal 1.0 NTU criteria.
These individuals are encouraged to bring tap water to a full boil before drinking it, or using it to wash fruits and vegetables, brush teeth or make ice. Alternatively, bottled water can also be used.
The advisory will remain in place until further notice.
Meanwhile, Whistler remains under a heat warning issued by Environment Canada. Temperatures are forecast to hit a scorching high of 41 C in Whistler on Monday (but will reach 44 C in Pemberton) and 40 C on Tuesday, before continuing to dip to the low-30s throughout the week.
