Contaminated drinking water discovered in Northern California

On Sunday afternoon, California Water Service and the State Division of Drinking Water issued a water contamination notice to residents in Los Altos, just north of San Jose. According to the notice, E. coli and coliform were found in drinking water. Residents have been told to boil any water used for consumption or cooking.

“E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal waste. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms,” the notice read. “It is important to note that these symptoms are not always caused by organisms in drinking water. In any case, if you experience the symptoms and they persist, you may wish to seek medical advice.”

According to the notice, the contamination was discovered after a main was repaired on Friday.

California Water Service will reimburse residents who wish to use bottled water, as long as they have their receipt.