Approximately 200,000 households in San Diego County receive their drinking water from the Sweetwater Authority, which recently detected the presence of PFAS, known as a “forever chemical,” during a safety test. While the levels do not require immediate action, they have triggered a mandatory state warning.

“We only have one data point. There’s a lot we’re waiting for, and a lot of information to gather,” said Paulina Martínez Pérez, chairwoman of the Sweetwater Authority. “The water is safe to drink, and we are ready to take any necessary steps to continue delivering safe and reliable water to our customers.”

Karen Henry, a retired water engineer and resident of Chula Vista, expressed concern about the impact of the findings on her home. “These contaminants are coming through my pipes to my house today,” she said.

You might also be interested in its Spanish version: Detectan químico tóxico en el agua potable de San Diego

With stricter California regulations set to take effect in 2029, the Sweetwater Authority could face millions of dollars in costs to mitigate PFAS. Félix Félix, water resources manager, highlighted the urgency of early action. “If we continue detecting PFAS and the levels rise, we will need to find a way to treat it,” he explained.

For Henry, 2029 feels too far off. “I’m terrified; I don’t have a treatment system,” she said. “I worked in this industry for 30 years and always drank the water.”