Hudson, Texas Drinking Water in Violation of an EPA Standard

The Hudson Water Supply Corporation (WSC) has issued a release stating the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has found that the drinking water being supplied to customers by the Hudson WSC has exceeded the maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes.

What the Heck is Trihalomethane?

Trihalomethane is a chemical compound that is produced as a result of the reaction between chlorine and natural organic material in water. When decaying vegetation comes in contact with chlorine, trihalomethane is produced.

It's a compound that is present in pretty much all public drinking water supplies.

How Dangerous is Trihalomethane?

Long-time exposure to high levels of trihalomethane can lead to a litany of medical issues. Some people who drink water containing trihalomethanes in excess of the Maximum Contaminant Level over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidney, or central nervous systems, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. However, the accepted level of this compound in drinking water is thousands of times lower than what could cause poisoning.

Trihalomethane compounds can be consumed or they can be absorbed through your skin via baths, hand washing, or a swim at a community pool. Even though the majority of Americans are exposed to trihalomethane on a daily basis, the low levels allowed in the public water supply are considered a very low risk for consumers, especially when compared to the dangers of drinking untreated water.

So...What About the Hudson Water?

According to the TCEQ, recent tests of the drinking water supplied by Hudson WSC show that the total trihalomethane level is 0.083 milligrams per liter, slightly above the accepted EPA maximum contaminant level of 0.080 milligrams per liter.

A release from the Hudson WSC indicates that customers do not need to use an alternative water supply. However, if you do have health concerns, you may want to talk to your doctor to get more information about how this may affect you.

Actions Taken by Hudson WSC

According to their website, the Hudson Water Supply Corporation is looking into a filtration system for both plants.  They are also flushing longer periods of time in affected locations. No word was given on where the affected locations are.

Are There Home Filters That Help Remove Trihalomethane?

Absolutely! Devices that use carbon filtration are an excellent way to reduce those levels. Reverse osmosis filtration is another way as well as boiling your water.

An excellent article on different ways to remove trihalomethane from your tap water can be found here.