BRADENTON, Fla. — The City of Bradenton is urging residents to be cautious about their water supply after storm surge from Hurricane Helene breached the Braden River impoundment dam. As a result, the city is temporarily experiencing issues with secondary drinking water standards, such as increased chloride levels. While the water meets all primary health standards, residents may notice a change in taste or color.
City officials are working closely with Manatee County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to resolve the situation. Testing is ongoing, and the city is encouraging water conservation as efforts continue.
For residents who prefer an alternative, bottled water will be distributed at three locations over the weekend: Wakeland Elementary, the 1000–1200 block of 3rd Avenue West, and G.T. Bray Park. Distribution times are set for Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m…