WaterNSW has closed Medlow Dam in the Blue Mountains temporarily after elevated levels of PFAS chemicals were detected in untreated water. The dam has been disconnected from the water supply as a precautionary measure while further investigations are conducted. However, the water supplied from the Cascade filtration plant to communities in the Blue Mountains has been confirmed to be safe to consume and meet Australian drinking water guidelines.
PFAS chemicals are difficult to destroy and have been associated with health risks, including cancer. Testing at Medlow Dam found elevated levels of PFOS and PFHxS combined, slightly above the acceptable limits for treated water. However, once the water passes through the Cascade plant, the levels of these chemicals in the drinking water remain within safe limits.
Experts, such as Prof Stuart Khan, have noted that while it is important to identify and address contaminants in water sources, the levels detected at Medlow Dam do not pose an immediate threat. Khan expressed concern that media reports may be generating unnecessary fear and damaging public trust in the water supply system.
WaterNSW is continuing to investigate the presence of PFAS in the Blue Mountains area to ensure the safety of the water supply. While Medlow Dam has been temporarily closed, there are plans to resume using the water supply from the dam once investigations are completed. The agency remains committed to providing safe drinking water to communities in the Blue Mountains.
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