Humboldt County Earthquake | Safe drinking water expected in Rio Del within a few days – Record Times

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Residents of Rio del Rio, one of the hardest hit areas hit by the December 20 6.4-magnitude earthquake that injured 17 and contributed to two deaths, still lack access to safe drinking water, but that is likely to change soon.

The city expects to end its boil water warning by next Wednesday, and 95% of residents have their water restored, even though it is not yet safe to drink. Residents are encouraged to clean faucet filters, and remove air locks by opening faucets on the highest elevations in their homes and turning on the water occasionally over the next few days.

Several organizations assist with relief efforts, including Pay it Forward Humboldt, which responds to community requests for specific needs.

“We had an elderly lady who needed help cleaning her clothes. Her pipes had burst, so all her stuff was wet, and she was worried about mildew, so we coordinated to get a volunteer to go do her laundry,” said Jessica Gregorio, director of Pay It Forward Humboldt.

Showers are available at the Rio Dell Fire Hall, the Rohner Park night center is still open in Fortuna and there are dumpsters outside the Rio Dell City Hall for disposal of earthquake debris. Rio Dell residents may request welfare checks by calling 5642-764707.

Humboldt County is still assessing the total amount of damage caused by the earthquake.

Rio Dell still inspects buildings for structural damage, and those who were not inspected for suspected structural damage can report it to 707-764-3532.

Pay It Forward Humboldt can be reached at 707-616-9191, and while they will try to help residents with any earthquake-related issue, Gregorio noted that they cannot provide housing vouchers or pay for hotel stays.

“Again, every disaster we’ve seen with fires and now this (Humboldt County) earthquake is coming together,” Gregorio said. “They want to help people, volunteer, and still donate, and that’s just a testament to how beautiful and wonderful this county is and we’re so grateful.”

More information about emergency services and how to help can be found at https://humboldtgov.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=4947.

The Jackson Guilfoil can be reached at 707-441-0506.

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