Thunderstorms that began on April 17 dumped more than 8 inches of rain within 28 hours in parts of eastern Iowa, and caused flash flooding, road closures and concerns about potential health risks associated with private wells that were covered with floodwaters.

Sgt. Bill Miller of the West Liberty Police Department examines floodwaters on April 18 at Wapsie Park along U.S. Highway 6. (Photo courtesy of Lindsey Jackson/West Liberty Index.)

"If floodwaters have been over the well, the drinking water is not safe to drink," said Nancy Hall, environmental microbiology manager for the State Hygienic Laboratory. "This water also should not be used for teeth brushing or showering.

During well flooding, Hall recommends using drinking water from a safe source, such as bringing water from a city supply or buying bottled water that is intended for drinking. As a last resort, water can be disinfected by boiling for 1 minute, she said.

The State Hygienic Laboratory tests well water for the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria. Sample collection kits are available – often at no charge for testing – by contacting local health departments. Collection kits also can be ordered from the Hygienic Laboratory. Additional flood-related information is available on the Hygienic Laboratory website and from the Iowa Department of Public Health.