BOIL WATER ADVISORY

ISSUED BY: Silver Thread Public Health District

AFFECTED AREA: Upper Piedra Valley, Hinsdale County, Colorado & Wolf Creek Ranch 177022 W. Hwy 160

EFFECTIVE DATE: November 4, 2026

EVENT: Piedra River Surface Flooding & Potential System Contamination

DRINKING WATER WARNING: BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING

Due to recent severe flooding in the Upper Piedra Valley and the South Fork along HWY 160, floodwaters have introduced potential microbial contaminants into local surface water intakes, shallow wells, and distribution lines. To safeguard public health, a Boil Water Advisory is in effect for all residents, visitors, and commercial properties within the affected zone until further notice.

What Should You Do?

DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST.

• Boiling Instructions (High-Altitude Requirement): Bring all tap water to a rolling boil for at least three (3) full minutes before use. Hinsdale and Mineral County sit at high elevations (consistently above 6,500 feet), where water boils at lower temperatures; a 3-minute rolling boil is required to destroy disease-causing microorganisms.
• Cooling and Storage: Allow water to cool naturally before handling. Store boiled water in clean, covered, food-grade containers.
• Usage Scope: Use boiled or bottled water for:
  • Drinking, brushing teeth, and preparing infant formula
  • Washing fruits, vegetables, and preparing food
  • Making ice (discard all existing ice made from tap water during/after the flood)
  • Giving water to domestic pets

Bathing and Sanitation Guidelines

• Showering and Bathing: Adults and older children may shower or bathe with tap water, provided they avoid swallowing any water.
• Infants and Young Children: Sponge-bathe infants and toddlers using boiled or bottled water to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Dishwashing: Hand-wash dishes in hot, soapy water, then rinse for 1 minute in warm water treated with 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach per gallon. Alternatively, run an automatic dishwasher only if it features a high-heat sanitation cycle.
• Laundry: Standard machine washing of clothing and linens is generally safe, provided laundry is dried completely in a hot dryer.

Health Risks

Flood contamination can introduce organisms such as E. coli, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia. Ingestion may cause symptoms including:

• Diarrhea and abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches and low-grade fever

These symptoms pose a heightened risk for infants, young children, older people, and individuals with compromised immune systems. If you experience persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

Corrective Actions Underway

Emergency response crews and public utilities are conducting system integrity inspections, flushing flood-affected distribution lines, and collecting water quality samples for bacteriological testing.

This advisory will remain active until laboratory analysis confirms two consecutive rounds of negative coliform/pathogen samples meeting state drinking water standards. A formal rescission notice will follow once water is deemed safe.

Emergency Contacts

• Silver Thread Public Health District: (719) 658-2416
• Emergency Dispatch: 911