PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii - The primary water distribution mains associated with the housing areas affected by possible potable water contamination have been flushed twice and the third flush is ongoing. No petroleum or contaminants have been detected in testing at affected sites or at wells and tanks; however, there remains a concern that residual contamination may exist in some of the water lines based on continued reports from residents.

To flush the individual lines to each residence, the Navy is asking residents in all military housing areas to run the water in their homes for about three to five minutes today to help move water through the system and possibly alleviate the odor. Hot and cold taps at each location, including baths and showers, should be opened and let run for several minutes.

The individual home flush is complementary to the centralized water distribution flush being conducted throughout the system in order to eliminate any contaminants from low flow lines and high spots in the piping systems.

To date, all tests of water samples conducted by both Hawaii Department of Health and the Navy have not detected petroleum constituents in initial testing. The Navy is pursuing more stringent tests by independent labs on the mainland to ensure water purity meets EPA standards.

The Navy’s current guidance for Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam military housing residents is to report any abnormal odors associated with their potable water. If abnormal odors are present, avoid drinking and cooking with the water. The Navy is implementing a plan to distribute water to the affected areas. More information will be provided to residents of those communities as soon as it is available.

Additionally, the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is operating an information call center (INFOCELL) to receive calls from residents in military housing who have concerns about their water. The INFOCELL at the EOC is taking calls at (808) 448-2570 and (808) 448-3262, and (808) 448-2583. We encourage residents with concerns to call in order identify locations that may be experiencing issues.

Approximately 200 residents have called the line for testing, and known impacted neighborhoods are currently Catlin Park, Halsey Terrace, Radford Terrace, Doris Miller, Moanalua Terrace and Ohana Nui.

The Navy is continuing to collect and test samples, inspect water distribution systems and other parts of the Navy’s water distribution system to identify and characterize the source of the odor in the water.

The Navy continues to monitor and investigate and will update residents and other stakeholders.