Chicago suburb issues warning about drinking water containing ‘elevated lead levels'

The City of Aurora has issued a public notice regarding the discovery of elevated lead levels in the local drinking water supply. Data collected by the Water Production Division between January and June 2026 indicates that more than 10 percent of the samples taken from specific homes exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency action level for lead. City officials stress that this finding is a statistical representation based on qualified home sampling rather than a city-wide contamination event.

Lead service lines are the primary source of these elevated levels. Exposure to lead in water poses health risks to all age groups, including potential impacts on IQ and attention span in children, as well as risks of heart disease and kidney issues in adults. Women exposed to lead during pregnancy also face increased health concerns for their children.

In response to these findings, the city began implementing corrosion control treatments in March, including the use of orthophosphate. This chemical works to reduce the amount of lead that leaches from service lines into the water supply. City crews continue to sample water to monitor the situation and are working on a plan to remove existing lead service lines.

Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to reduce exposure. The city recommends using certified water filters, regularly cleaning faucet screens and aerators, and running cold water before use. Officials are also urging families to get children tested for lead exposure. A map detailing the impacted service lines is available on the official city website for residents to review.