Sedema asks to protect rain collection systems due to possible ash fall

He Popocatepetl Volcano continue to be active and possible ash fall in different municipalities of CDMX This remains a probability according to the authorities of the capital. Faced with this situation, the Ministry of the Environment (edema), through the Directorate General for the Coordination of Environmental Policies and Culture, asked citizens to take care of Rain Harvest systems.

Saying program set up by the head of the government of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaumaims to ensure that communities in The most vulnerable areas and those suffering the most from water shortages in CDMX have the vital liquid. However, given the urgency due to the volcanic activity, the authorities reiterated the importance of prevent and have good guarantees these systems to avoid contamination.

There edema noted that due to the relationship between collection area and reservoir volume, the rain collectors can be vulnerable to volcanic ash fall; However; The water in the tank poses no risk to human health since the elements can be released from the ash, especially iron, manganese and aluminum, they only cause turbidity and a change in pH.

How do I maintain Rain Harvest systems?

The authorities recommend cover the tanks well and keep the separation valve open from the first rains. If there is no filter, it will be necessary to turn off the pump and not use it until the ashes stop falling, then renew and replace the liquid with clean water, which must be removed manually, because when using the pump there is a risk of permanently affecting it by clogging and ash corrosion; also if the installation has a flow meter.

You must remember that the water collected in these systems should not be used for drinkingbut to perform household activities such as washing clothes, dishes, mopping floors, bathing, watering plants, among other household cleaning uses, according to authorities.

Faced with this situation, the edema pointed out that small amounts of ash are unlikely (a few millimeters) make water unsafe, especially for residential use. Over time, the fresh rain will dilute the chemicals in the ash and improve water quality, although they urge maintaining prevention measures and following recommendations if ash is found. so as not to have to clean their equipment.