HONOLULU — A water sample collected from the Volcano Catchment Chlorinator of the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park water system has revealed trace amounts of 1-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)-benzene (PCBTF). The sample, taken on April 8, 2025, showed a concentration of 2.57 micrograms per liter (μg/L) of PCBTF.
The water system, operated by the U.S. Department of the Interior, formally informed the Hawaiʻi Department of Health about the detection in an email sent on May 23, 2025.
PCBTF, an industrial solvent, is not currently regulated in drinking water. This means there are no established federal or state guidelines for maximum levels of the substance. Though limited data is available on the effects of PCBTF in drinking water, current information indicates no immediate health risks at the detected levels. The water system continues to comply with all federal and state drinking water safety standards.
Residents and visitors who are concerned can contact the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park water system for more information.
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