Could the New Orleans Boil Water Advisory Happen in Your City?

Boil water advisories aren’t just a New Orleans issue. Flooding, water main breaks, and aging infrastructure can cause sudden drops in water pressure anywhere. When this happens, your tap water might not be safe to drink without boiling it first.

This guide explains why boil water advisories happen, what to do if one’s issued in your area, and how investing in a quality water filtration system can help protect your household.

Why Boil Water Advisories Happen — Not Just in New Orleans

New Orleans’ location below sea level and its aging pipes make it vulnerable to boil water advisories. But the same risks exist in cities across the country.

Whenever water pressure drops too low — whether from a burst pipe, power outage, flooding, or routine maintenance — harmful contaminants like bacteria can slip into the water supply.

A boil water advisory is issued as a precaution until testing proves the water is safe to drink again.

What Should You Do During a Boil Water Advisory?

If your city announces a boil water advisory, follow these simple but important safety steps:

Can You Shower During a Boil Water Advisory?

Yes — you can shower or bathe as long as you don’t swallow any water. Be cautious with young children, people with open wounds, or anyone with a weakened immune system. In those cases, sponge baths with boiled or bottled water may be safer.

What Happens If You Accidentally Drink Tap Water?

Don’t panic if you drink unboiled water while an advisory is in effect. For most healthy people, the risk is low. Still, watch for symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, or fever. If these develop (especially for infants, older adults, or people with weakened immune systems) contact your doctor and mention the advisory.

How Long Do Boil Water Advisories Last?

Most last 24–48 hours, but this depends on how quickly your local utility can fix the issue and test the water supply. Never assume an advisory is over — wait for your city’s official notice that it’s safe.

Does Filtration Help During a Boil Water Advisory?

No household filter, pitcher, or fridge filter can replace boiling water during a bacterial contamination event. Only boiling and UV treatment kills bacteria and viruses.

However, a good filtration system is still valuable for everyday protection. It can:

• Reduce sediment, rust, chlorine, and chemical contaminants
• Protect your home’s plumbing and appliances
• Improve taste and smell
• Provide everyday peace of mind about what’s coming from your taps

For example, the iFilters LWH-D Whole-House Filter System is designed to filter sediment and chlorine that can affect your water quality daily — even when there’s no advisory.

What To Do When the Advisory Is Lifted

Once your local water authority confirms the water is safe:

• Run cold water taps for at least 5 minutes to flush out pipes.
• Throw out ice made during the advisory.
• Disinfect water dispensers and ice makers.
• Replace water in humidifiers, pet bowls, or any appliances that store water.
• Follow any other instructions from your local utility.

Stay Ready for Next Time

A boil water advisory can happen in any city. Stay informed and prepared by:

• Signing up for local water quality alerts or emergency texts
• Keeping clean containers and a big pot ready for boiling
• Storing bottled water for emergencies
• Testing private wells regularly if you rely on one
• Investing in a reliable whole-house filtration system to help with everyday concerns like sediment, chlorine, and unpleasant odors
• Consider installing a whole house UV post treatment system for added protection

Water Advisory FAQs

Q: What is a boil water advisory?
A: It’s a public health warning that your tap water might be contaminated. You must boil it before drinking, cooking, or using it for personal care.

Q: How long do I boil water?
A: Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one full minute.

Q: Can I shower during an advisory?
A: Yes, just don’t swallow the water. Take extra care with infants or open wounds.

Q: Can pets drink tap water during an advisory?
A: No, they should have boiled or bottled water too.

Q: What should I do when the advisory is over?
A: Flush pipes, discard ice, and clean water-related appliances to make sure you’re using only safe, fresh water.

A Final Word

Water emergencies can happen anywhere — not just in New Orleans. A reliable water filtration system doesn’t replace boiling water during an advisory, but it does help protect your family’s water quality every day.

Stay prepared, stay safe, and keep your household water as clean as possible with filtration solutions from iFilters.