Extensive rain and flooding from Hurricane Helene on seven-plus weeks ago severely damaged a bypass line at the North Fork Reservoir, supplier of 80% of the city’s water, causing the boil water notice for residents.

“The sampling process confirms that the flushing process that began on Oct. 30, when we were able to resume producing treated water, has turned the system over and raw water has been replaced with treated water,” Asheville Water Resources Department spokesman Clay Chandler said.

“Customers may resume normal usage of the water system,” he added.

The department has conducted three in-reservoir treatments at North Fork to reduce turbidity. Water filtration capacity at the reservoir has improved over the last several weeks. Another key water source for the area, the Bee Tree Reservoir, was severely damaged and agencies are still working on debris removal.

The department recommends residents temporarily avoid “large-volume activities,” like watering lawns or filling pools, as demand will be high.

“We are especially thankful to our customers for their patience,” Chandler said.