While assigning a single "worst" city is challenging due to varying factors and definitions of water quality, analyses by organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) have identified several major U.S. cities facing significant challenges with their tap water, particularly concerning contaminants like lead.
Cities Cited for Significant Water Quality Problems
An analysis by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) highlighted several large U.S. cities with notable tap water issues. These cities often contend with aging infrastructure, which can contribute to lead contamination and other water quality concerns.
Here are some of the cities frequently cited for their tap water challenges:
| City | State | Key Concerns (as identified in analyses) |
|---|---|---|
| Flint | MI | Lead and other contaminants due to infrastructure issues and pipe corrosion |
| Newark | NJ | Lead contamination from aging service lines and water treatment issues |
| Philadelphia | PA | Lead from old pipes and service lines, presence of other contaminants |
| Houston | TX | Broad range of contaminants reported, including byproducts of disinfection |
| Detroit | MI | Lead and other contaminants due to widespread aging infrastructure |
The Pervasive Threat of Lead Contamination
One of the most critical issues impacting tap water quality in many older U.S. cities is lead contamination. Lead can leach into drinking water from lead service lines, lead-based solder used in plumbing, and brass fixtures.
- Health Risks: Lead exposure can cause a variety of serious health problems, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Children: Even low levels of lead exposure can lead to irreversible developmental and neurological damage, affecting cognitive function, attention span, and academic performance.
- Adults: In adults, lead exposure can contribute to kidney damage, cardiovascular problems, and reproductive issues.
- Source: The primary source of lead in tap water is often the corrosion of lead-containing plumbing materials as water passes through them. Many cities still have extensive networks of lead service lines connecting water mains to homes.
Understanding Broader Water Quality Issues
Beyond lead, tap water quality can be affected by various factors, including:
- Aging Infrastructure: Old pipes are not only a source of lead but can also crack, leading to main breaks and potential infiltration of contaminants.
- Agricultural Runoff: Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers from farms can seep into water sources.
- Industrial Discharge: Industrial waste can introduce chemicals and heavy metals into water systems.
- Water Treatment Byproducts: While essential for disinfection, chlorine and other disinfectants can react with organic matter in water to form potentially harmful byproducts.
- Natural Contaminants: Minerals, heavy metals (like arsenic), and naturally occurring radioactive materials can be present in source water.
What Residents Can Do
If you live in an area with known water quality concerns, or simply want to ensure your tap water is safe, consider these steps:
- Test Your Water: Contact your local water utility or a certified lab to test your home's tap water for common contaminants, especially lead.
- Use Water Filters: Install point-of-use filters (like faucet-mounted or pitcher filters) or whole-house filtration systems that are certified to remove specific contaminants of concern. Look for certifications from organizations like NSF International.
- Flush Taps: If your home has lead pipes or if water has been sitting in pipes for several hours, run the tap for a few minutes before using it for drinking or cooking.
- Stay Informed: Review your annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your water utility, which details water quality test results for your area. The EPA provides information on lead in drinking water and general drinking water standards.
- Advocate for Change: Support initiatives and policies aimed at upgrading aging water infrastructure and strengthening environmental regulations.
