2026-05-07
In preparation for the summer season and to improve safety in the water supply network, preventive disinfection, or chlorination, of Riga’s water supply system is planned from May 11 to May 15.
Although the disinfection of water pipelines does not pose health risks, residents are advised to use boiled water for drinking and food preparation during the process and for 24 hours afterwards. Water may still be safely used without boiling for household purposes. Water intended for pets, birds, ornamental fish, etc., should be left to stand before use, and the same precaution is recommended for watering indoor plants.
The disinfection process will begin on May 11 at 00:00 simultaneously at all water pumping stations operated by “Rīgas ūdens”, allowing the disinfecting substance to spread evenly throughout the city’s water supply network. During this period, tap water may develop an unpleasant odour and a slight chlorine taste; however, the amount of chlorine used for disinfection purposes is not harmful or dangerous to health. “Rīgas ūdens” will continuously monitor the situation, carefully tracking chlorine concentration levels in the water.
According to both our experts and specialists from the World Health Organization, preventive disinfection of water supply networks is recommended twice a year, but no less frequently than once every two years, as it is considered a priority and necessary measure to ensure consistently high drinking water quality. “Rīgas ūdens” plans to carry out water supply disinfection twice a year in the future (or more frequently if necessary). The second water supply disinfection of this year is planned for autumn.
