Zirl investigates source of continuing drinking water contamination

Residents of Zirl must continue boiling water from their taps because safe drinking quality has not yet been confirmed, ORF reported. Authorities are investigating whether a particular spring caused the contamination.

There is currently no known risk of death from the contaminated water, Mayor Thomas Öfner of the SPÖ said on Monday. However, drinking water that has not been boiled could cause nausea or diarrhoea.

The drinking water quality has not been established since last week’s severe storm, Öfner said. Environmental contamination, including animal faecal matter, is considered possible. Because the contamination remains in the system, officials are investigating further causes.

Officials are now testing every spring that supplies water to the Schlossbach reservoir. If one source is identified as the cause, it can be disconnected. The analysis results are due to be discussed with technical planners and advisers on Tuesday afternoon.

The municipality said the boiling order applies only to water used for drinking or preparing food and beverages. Residents can shower, wash their hands and flush toilets without boiling the water first. Sampling and testing were significantly expanded again on Monday.