Boil Water Advisory Issued in Kannapolis After E. Coli Contamination Detected
Residents urged to boil water as crews flush system; schools dismissed early and water shut off at campuses
This story has been adapted from a City of Kannapolis news release.
Residents in Kannapolis are being urged to boil their drinking water after city officials confirmed contaminants carrying E. coli bacteria in the municipal water supply.
Kannapolis Water Resources Department crews identified the contaminants despite standard treatment processes designed to eliminate such bacteria before water reaches the public. Officials said additional precautionary measures are being taken to ensure public safety.
City crews are flushing and treating the water system, with follow-up testing expected within 24 hours to confirm the contamination has been resolved. Officials believe the issue is temporary and anticipate the advisory will be lifted within that timeframe.
The advisory also impacted local schools. Kannapolis City Schools announced all schools would dismiss early as a precaution, and water service was shut off at all campuses.
All schools have since been dismissed, including McKnight Child Development Center and Kannapolis Middle School at 11 a.m., A.L. Brown High School at 11:30 a.m., and elementary schools at noon.
School officials said staff will remain on campus until all students have been safely transported.
In an abundance of caution, all residents are advised to boil water used for drinking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and preparing food. Officials recommend bringing water to a vigorous boil for at least one minute to kill any disease-causing organisms. Bottled water may also be used as an alternative
Officials will distribute a notice when it is safe to stop boiling water.
To support residents during the advisory, bottled water is being distributed at the Kannapolis Fire Department Logistics Building located at 933 Floyd Street.
E. coli bacteria are commonly associated with contamination from human or animal waste. Exposure can lead to short-term health effects such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches. Health officials note that infants, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may face higher risks.
Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact city officials directly. Further updates will be provided as testing continues and conditions improve.
If people have questions, they can call the City of Kannapolis at 704-920-4444.
