Wayne Water Approved For Bathing But Not Drinking

The mayor of the Town of Wayne upgraded the town’s water order from “Do Not Consume” to “Do Not Drink.”

The distinction means residents of the Wayne County town can use their city water supply for all normal purposes except for cooking and drinking. Under the previous order, bathing and washing clothes were also discouraged. 

However, residents have been asked not to use their water for any purpose until completing a full residential flushing of their home.

Town residents haven’t been able to use their water since an Appalachian Power substation was vandalized on Jan. 13 and the “Do Not Consume” order was issued on Jan. 16. 

Water distribution sites for the Town of Wayne are as follows:

●      Wayne Town Hall: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

●      East Lynn Fire Department: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

●      Old Save A Lot store at Dunrovin: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Water buffaloes are available at the Wayne Town Hall and East Lynn distribution locations for residents to fill personal water jugs and containers.

Early closures will be announced through Wayne’s social media and cell phone alert system. People may register for cell phone alerts by texting WENS to 78015.

The mayor’s office notes that any health concerns in relation to this incident should be brought to the attention of primary care providers.

Separately, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the West Virginia State Police are investigating an unrelated incident at Lexington Coal Company’s Rock Springs Mining Complex in Wayne County. Less than 10 gallons of mineral oil leaked from a transformer. The material was contained to the immediate area and did not reach any receiving streams.