This news item expired on Friday, January 20, 2023 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Update Jan. 4, 2023
With Water Restored to Residents, Water Distribution Closing Wednesday at 5 p.m.
Following the City of Asheville’s announcement that water has been restored and the boil water advisory has been lifted, Buncombe County will suspend water distribution operations at 5 p.m. Wednesday. The closure includes both locations at West Buncombe Fire Department and Enka-Candler Station #2.
“We are grateful to our partners at our fire stations and our volunteers who truly embodied the One Buncombe spirit and worked so quickly to connect our residents to water resources during this time,” said Taylor Jones, Director of Buncombe County Emergency Services.
After a water outage, follow these guidelines to bring your water back on safely.
Update Jan. 3, 2023
Non-Potable Water and Drinking Water Still Available
Non-potable water and drinking water are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at West Buncombe and Enka-Candler Station #2. These resources will be available until further notice. Residents seeking non-potable water for flushing toilets must bring their own containers to fill. Non-potable water cannot be used as drinking water. Residents who need drinking water can also access limited quantities of bottled water.
*Reminder: Woodfin Fire Department is no longer providing water at their location.
Fire station locations:
What is non-potable water? Non-potable water is not treated to drinking water standards and is not meant for human or pet consumption, even if boiled. It can be used for flushing toilets or watering plants, but should not be used for cooking or washing hands. Hand sanitizer should be used as a safe alternative for handwashing.
What is potable water? Potable water is water that’s been treated and is safe for human and pet consumption.
Residents who are not able to acquire water themselves can call water resources customer service at 828-251-1122 to request delivery. City of Asheville Water Department customer service will be staffed Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Delivery is available for drinking, personal hygiene, flushing toilets and any other sanitation needs. Please do not call 911 for water.
All seven YMCA locations that are part of the YMCA of Western North Carolina system are open Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for individuals that do not have water and need to shower. YMCA locations can be found online here. No membership is needed.
After a water outage, follow these guidelines to bring your water back on safely.
For food establishment guidance around boil water advisories and water outages, click here.
For updated water outage updates, visit the City of Asheville page here.