Signs Your Private Well Has Been Contaminated After a Storm

Private wells are especially vulnerable during storms, heavy rainfall, and flooding events. Unlike municipal water systems, private wells are not continuously monitored, and contamination can occur silently. Surface runoff carrying soil bacteria, animal waste, fertilizers, and sewage can enter wells through compromised well caps, shallow casings, or saturated ground.

Some homeowners notice immediate warning signs such as cloudy water, unusual odors, or metallic or earthy tastes. However, many harmful microorganisms do not change water appearance, smell, or taste. Coliform bacteria, E. coli, and other pathogens are microscopic and often undetectable without testing.

Health symptoms are often the first indicator. Gastrointestinal illness, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, and recurring infections may appear days or weeks after exposure. Children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may be affected first.

Storm-related well contamination can also extend beyond drinking water. Contaminated water can spread bacteria to sinks, faucets, appliances, and household surfaces. Even after water treatment or shock chlorination, residual contamination may remain inside the home.

A Home Sanitation Confirmation Test can help determine whether bacteria introduced through contaminated well water have spread to household surfaces, offering a broader picture of exposure risk beyond water testing alone.

By A. Anagnos, Biomedical Engineering Specialist