ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) -- The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) state-of-the-art mobile water testing laboratory is in Asheville as Helene recovery is underway.
It is utilized to assist state and local governments in lifting boil water advisories after natural disasters. The lab can analyze 100 samples per day and provide analytical results in less than 48 hours.
The mobile lab is receiving private drinking water samples and preparing to test public water system samples over the next few days.
"We bring our mobile lab out under a mission assignment through FEMA, we test for coliform and E. coli bacteria to make sure the water is safe and the boil water advisories can be lifted in an area," said Sandra Aker, EPA branch chief.
BYPASS LINE RECONNECTED AT RESERVOIR; EFFORTS CONTINUE TO RESTORE ASHEVILLE WATER
The laboratory can last for as long as a response is needed.
Gov. Roy Cooper was also on the site to visit the lab today.