Flint – Michigan
Flint continues to recover from one of America’s worst water crises, with ongoing lead pipe replacement and water quality monitoring efforts throughout the city. The crisis began in 2014 when the city switched its water source from Detroit’s system to the Flint River without proper corrosion control treatment, causing lead from aging pipes to leach into the water supply.
Since reconnecting to Detroit’s water system (now Great Lakes Water Authority) in October 2015 and implementing proper treatment, Flint’s water quality has significantly improved. Water testing now shows lead levels below the federal action limit, but the EPA emphasizes that no level of lead is considered safe, especially for children and pregnant women.
Flint Water Quality: Current Status (2024-2025)
Latest Testing Results
- Lead Levels: The most recent testing period (January-June 2024) showed a 90th percentile calculation of just 1 part per billion (ppb) for lead, a significant drop from the previous period’s 10 ppb. Michigan
- Testing Scope: 64 sample results were included in this calculation, with only two testing above 3 ppb. The highest result was 13 ppb. Michigan
- Compliance Status: Flint’s system currently meets regulatory criteria for lead and copper according to the EPA. US EPA This marks the 17th consecutive monitoring period since July 2016 where the city has tested below action levels for both lead and copper. Michigan
Infrastructure Progress
- Lead Service Line Replacement: Over 97% of lead service line replacements have been completed. City of Flint However, as of April 2024, the work of identifying and replacing lead service lines remains unfinished, with nearly 2,000 homes still requiring repairs for property damage caused by the lead pipe replacement program. Nrdc
- Water Treatment: The City has completed upgrades to the Dort Reservoir, with its pumping station set for completion in Spring 2024. Cedar Street Reservoir and Pumping Station renovations will follow. City of Flint
- Monitoring Systems: Six water quality monitoring stations installed throughout the city provide virtually instantaneous and ongoing assessments of water quality. City of Flint
Water Source and Treatment
- Current Water Source: Flint now receives water from the Great Lakes Water Authority (Lake Huron). City of Flint
- Treatment Facility: A new high-tech chemical injection facility is located near where water from the Great Lakes Water Authority combines with water from the Genesee County Drain Commission. Water Plant staff monitor the system around the clock. City of Flint
Future Regulatory Changes
- Stricter Standards Coming: Michigan adopted the nation’s toughest lead rules for drinking water in 2018. Starting in 2025, the action level for lead will be lowered from 15 ppb to 12 ppb. Michigan
- Federal Policies: The Biden administration announced in October 2024 that all drinking water systems nationwide will need to replace lead service lines within 10 years. Eos
Continued Concerns
Many residents still don’t drink from their taps despite improvements. Jamie Davis, a Flint resident, says “I don’t think I’ll ever get to the point where I’m comfortable [using the water] without it being filtered.” Acs
Recommendations for Flint Residents
Use Filtered or Bottled Water
Continue to use NSF-certified filters for drinking water and cooking, even if your service line has been replaced. Filters should be rated to remove lead (Standard 53).
Get Your Water Tested
Free water testing is still available to Flint residents. Contact the Flint Water Testing Hotline at (810) 787-6537 to schedule testing.
Replace Your Plumbing Fixtures
Consider replacing older faucets and fixtures, especially those installed before 2014. Look for fixtures labeled “lead-free.”
Flush Your Water
If water hasn’t been used for several hours, run cold water for at least 5 minutes before using. Always use cold water for drinking and cooking.
Stay Informed
Keep up to date with the latest water quality reports and service line replacement status at cityofflint.com/gettheleadout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Flint’s water safe to drink now?
Flint’s water now tests below federal action levels for lead, but no amount of lead is considered safe. If you live in Flint, it’s recommended to continue using NSF-certified water filters (Standard 53) for drinking and cooking until all lead service lines have been replaced and multiple tests confirm your water is safe. This is especially important for households with children, pregnant women, or elderly residents.
How do I know if my home has a lead service line?
You can check if your home has had its service line replaced by visiting the City of Flint’s “Get the Lead Out” website, which maintains a database of properties where service lines have been replaced. If you’re unsure, you can request a free inspection by calling the Flint Water Service Center at (810) 766-7202. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead service lines or lead solder in their plumbing.
Will filtered water remove all contaminants, including bacteria?
Standard water filters certified to remove lead (NSF Standard 53) will not remove all types of contaminants. Most pitcher filters and faucet-mounted filters are designed to remove lead, copper, and certain chemicals, but not bacteria or viruses. If you’re concerned about bacterial contamination, look for filters specifically certified for microbiological purification (NSF Standard P231) or consider using bottled water for drinking and cooking.
How can I participate in the Flint water crisis settlement?
To participate in the $626 million settlement, residents needed to register by March 29, 2021. If you registered before this deadline, you should have received claim forms that needed to be submitted by May 12, 2022. For questions about the status of your claim or late registrations due to extenuating circumstances, you can contact the Claims Administrator at 800-493-1754 or visit www.flintwaterjustice.com. Settlement payments began distribution in early 2023, with priority given to claims involving children.
Contaminants of Concern
Legionella Bacteria
Source: Proliferated in the water system during the crisis due to inadequate chlorine treatment
Health Effects: Caused Legionnaires’ disease outbreak (2014-2015) resulting in 12 confirmed deaths and 90 cases
Current Status: No recent outbreaks detected with improved water treatment
Lead
Source: Lead service lines, lead solder, and plumbing fixtures that corroded during the crisis
Health Effects: Developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral problems in children; kidney problems and high blood pressure in adults
Current Levels: 5-8 ppb (90th percentile), down from over 100 ppb during the height of the crisis EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no level of lead is considered safe
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