Southeast Public Health issues well water advisory following heavy rainfall

Southeast Public Health (SEPH) is reminding residents to test well water and offering tips to prevent flooding after sudden heavy rainfall in the region and potential for more precipitation.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, Apr. 14, 2026, the local health unit said that localized flooding may be occurring in some areas.

“Floodwaters and water ponding around wells can compromise the safety of your drinking water,” SEPH said.

As such, residents whose wells have been affected by flooding are being advised to “boil their water for at least one minute at a rolling boil before consuming it, or to use an alternate safe water source until testing confirms the water is safe to drink.”

Information from the local public health agency on well water safety and testing can be found on the SEPH website, with tests available at any Southeast Public Health office or at a Public Health Ontario Laboratory (the closest of which is located at 181 Barrie Street in Kingston).

For residents whose properties are prone to flooding, SEPH offered the following tips:

• Monitor weather forecasts closely and take warnings seriously.
• Check your local conservation authority’s website and alerts for localized flooding risks.
• Ensure drainage ditches and similar features around your home are clear and able to function during heavy rainfall.
• Clearly label shut-off valves and note the direction to turn off gas, water, and power. If rising floodwaters require you to leave your home, turn off utilities before evacuating if it is safe to do so.
• Maintain your home to help prevent water from entering.
• Move items that could be damaged by floodwaters to higher areas when possible.
• Store chemicals, cleaners, fuel cans, and similar materials securely to prevent them from contaminating floodwater.
• Keep an adequate supply of fuel for generators and pumps in case of a power outage, and store fuel safely to avoid contamination.
• Maintain a well-stocked emergency kit, including important documents, cash, safe drinking water, food, and medications.

Information on the local flood status is available through the Cataraqui Conservation website, which currently lists the flood status as being at the ‘water safety’ level with the most recent water safety statement for inland lakes and streams issued on Thursday, Apr. 9, 2026. That flood status may be updated at any time.

On the topic of well water testing, SEPH said it is important to test well water for bacteria, and recommends testing well water at least three times per year, as well as after a weather event where flooding has occurred.

“Runoff from heavy rain or melting snow can affect drinking water safety. Bacterial contamination does not always change the taste, smell, or appearance of your water — testing is the only way to know for sure,” SEPH said.

“If contamination is detected, appropriate action can then be taken to protect the health of your family.”

The local health unit directed residents to view more information on flooding response and flood risk at: southeastph.ca/healt