Kankakee, IL – After nearly a week under a precautionary water advisory, Aqua Illinois has lifted its drinking water alert for infants in multiple Illinois communities as of Friday afternoon.
According to Aqua Illinois and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, recent test results show nitrate levels in the Kankakee River have returned to safe levels following a spike caused by heavy rainfall and spring fertilizer runoff. The advisory, issued on June 7, warned that elevated nitrate levels could pose health risks to infants under six months old, especially if tap water was used for drinking or formula preparation.
The advisory impacted customers served by Aqua’s Kankakee Water Treatment Plant, including residents in Kankakee, Peotone, University Park, and surrounding areas. Officials now confirm that all monitoring sites, including those mandated by the Illinois EPA, report nitrate levels below the federal safety threshold.
As a result, families may resume normal use of their tap water, and bottled water distribution programs for affected households have ended.
Residents are encouraged to share this update, especially with others who may not have received the advisory directly, such as individuals in apartments, nursing homes, or schools.
No further restrictions are in place, but Aqua Illinois has stated it will continue water quality monitoring to ensure continued compliance.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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