City of Cres warns: Water in three settlements is not drinkable

The city of Cres has issued a warning that tap water in three settlements, Orlec, Krčina, and Loznati, is unsafe for human consumption and recommends boiling before use. The alert was announced after a laboratory report from a licensed facility in Rijeka confirmed that the water does not meet safety standards for public use. The report was received by the company Ponikve voda, specifically its subsidiary responsible for water supply and drainage on the island of Cres and Lošinj. According to officials in Cres, samples were taken from public taps in the three affected areas, and the results showed contamination levels exceeding acceptable limits. As a precaution, residents are advised to boil water for at least three minutes before using it for drinking purposes. Once boiled, the water should be stored in clean containers at a cool temperature to maintain its safety. This recommendation applies until corrective measures are implemented and a new compliance report is issued. Officials from the city have stated that staff from the subsidiary are actively working to address the issue and eliminate non-compliance with water quality standards. They emphasized that efforts are being made to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Residents are urged to follow the advisory until further notice and to remain informed through official channels. The city has also requested additional formal explanations from Ponikve voda following receipt of the initial findings. It plans to communicate updates to the public once these clarifications are obtained. Officials assured that the situation will be resolved promptly and that the community will be kept informed throughout the process. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining safe drinking water supplies in certain regions of Croatia. While the exact cause of the contamination has not yet been disclosed, local authorities are investigating potential factors such as aging infrastructure, environmental influences, or recent changes in water treatment protocols. Similar issues have occasionally arisen in other parts of the country, prompting calls for increased investment in modernizing water systems and regular monitoring programs. Residents in the affected areas have expressed concern over the health implications of consuming untreated water, particularly during the warmer months when waterborne illnesses can spread more easily. Some have begun stockpiling bottled water as a precaution, while others rely on alternative sources such as wells or neighboring towns. Local businesses, including cafes and restaurants, have also adjusted their practices, offering filtered or bottled water to customers. Environmental experts suggest that seasonal rainfall patterns and runoff could contribute to fluctuations in water quality, especially in coastal communities where freshwater sources are limited. They recommend continued vigilance and collaboration between municipal authorities and water management agencies to prevent future incidents. Public awareness campaigns are also seen as essential in ensuring that residents understand how to safely handle and store water during periods of uncertainty. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on restoring safe water access for all residents. Until the issue is fully resolved, adherence to the recommended precautions is strongly encouraged. The city’s commitment to transparency and timely communication will be crucial in rebuilding trust among the population and ensuring long-term improvements in water safety.