LOCUST GROVE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – A “do not drink” water advisory remains for the eastern portion of Orange County out of an abundance of caution over something that’s caused an odor in the water. The advisory was upgraded over the weekend from a “do not use”… and now, it’s considered safe to wash hands and bathe with soap, but it’s still not deemed safe to drink, cook, or brush your teeth.

The good news is field testing by the state health department continues to confirm drinking water remains in compliance with federal and state drinking water standards, and sampling is still being used to try to identify the source of the odor. The odor is reportedly subsiding, and more inspection of the Wilderness water treatment plant will happen today, and the state health department and Rapidan Service Authority will reassess and update the advisory if necessary.
Meanwhile, Orange County Schools are open today… and Locust Grove Middle School students will be provided bottled water as they’re in the advisory area.