NEWBURGH, N.Y. (AP) - A Hudson Valley city has declared a state of emergency after officials say a potentially dangerous chemical was found in the city’s main water supply.
Newburgh declared the state of emergency on Monday.
City Manager Michael Ciaravino says the state Department of Conservation found low levels of the chemical known as PFOS in Silver Stream and Washington Lake.
The chemical, which is used in firefighting foam, has been identified by environmental regulators as an emerging contaminant of concern.
Officials say the city will not take drinking water from Lake Washington until further notice. Water will instead come from Brown’s Pond and the Catskills Aqueduct.
Water conservation measures will be implemented, including restrictions to lawn watering, vehicle washing. Water will only be served at restaurants upon request.
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