Miami-Dade's water remains safe while protecting against coronavirus

Miami-Dade County may be under a State of Emergency due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), but Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) customers do not have to worry about their water service.

“There is no need to buy bottled water,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “Our water remains safe to drink and provides one of the most reliable ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19, by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.”

There is no need to boil water prior to use.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the presence of the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies,” said Gimenez. “In the highly unlikely event that the virus were to be found in the groundwater supply, COVID-19 does not survive the disinfection process that is already a part of WASD’s daily treatment process.”

The current State of Emergency could have a significant impact on WASD’s wastewater system.

“Because people are cleaning and disinfecting more frequently with bleach wipes and potentially substituting other items for toilet paper – such as baby wipes and paper towels due to store shortages, we are imploring residents to throw these items away in the trash and not flush them down the toilet,” said Gimenez. “These items do not break down in the sewer lines and can cause significant clogs that could lead to breaks to our pipes and at our pump stations and treatment plants.

“Please be vigilant with the disposal of these products so as not to potentially disrupt our reliable wastewater removal services.”

It is the priority of the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to provide safe, reliable service to its customers. For additional information about Department services and programs, visit the WASD website.