01/18/2026
As of this morning the Department of Environmental Protection has taken over the oversight of cleanup activities on both ground and waterways. The DEP is now in charge of cleanup and their people along with environmental contractors are on site helping.
The Wayne water utility is awaiting testing and direction from the WV Health Department concerning line purging and/or extent of any potential contamination.
The WV Emergency Management Division, along with the Governor’s office have been briefed throughout the day and they have provided, along with AEP, pallets of drinking water that are available at Wayne Town Hall. A seven thousand gallon tank of potable water is also available for use.
This cleanup is a slow process and will take some time. Initial estimate are at least into next week. Additional resources are being brought in as needed.
It appears that the location, source, and amount of the initial contaminate have been identified and mostly contained.
IMPORTANT: If you smell petroleum in your water, do not use it for drinking, cooking, bathing, or cleaning. It cannot be consumed. The Wayne water do not consume order is in effect until lifted by the Wayne Water Utility with the consent of the health department.
The Mayor, state agencies, my office, and Wayne County Officials are waiting to hear the results of today’s testing before we can give non-speculative information as to water usage and further instructions.
