Officials from the North Penn and North Wales water authorities have confirmed that the local water supply is unaffected by the chemical spill that occurred in the Delaware River over the weekend.
Hazardous materials from the Bristol Township-based Trinsea Altuglas Company spilled into the Otter Creek and Delaware River on Friday, prompting the Philadelphia Water Department to issue a bottled water advisory as a precaution.
On Sunday, the North Wales Water Authority issued a statement on social media stating that their water was “totally unaffected by the chemical spill,” adding their customers do not need to purchase bottled water “or be concerned in any way.” Likewise, the North Penn Water Authority issued a similar statement on Monday morning, stating the spill occurred 38 miles south of their river intake at the Point Pleasant Pumping Station.
“There is no impact from this event on customers of the North Penn Water Authority. Our water is continuously monitored and tested around the clock every day. Our customers can be assured that their water is completely safe,” said Anthony Bellitto, executive director of NPWA.
The U.S. Coast Guard has command on the cleanup operation and has told LevittownNow.com at least 8,100 gallons of latex finishing material spilled into the waterway. They said the water-soluble acrylic polymer solution had a maximum potential release of 12,000 gallons, with a final determination being worked on.
Bucks County spokesperson James O’Malley said the chemical was not reported to be toxic to humans, but there were potential impacts to fish.
“The Coast Guard has not received any calls of injured or affected wildlife,” a statement from federal authorities said.
Philadelphia officials said their water would be safe to drink at least until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, adding none of the three chemicals that leaked into the river have been detected within the city’s water system.
“The water that is currently available to customers was treated before the spill reached Philadelphia and remains safe to drink and use for bathing, cooking and washing,” the city said Sunday in a statement.
Federal officials are advising residents to stay away from the area while the cleanup operations are ongoing.
