Radionuclide Medium Risk
Uranium
Increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity
Sources: Natural deposits, Mining
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (30 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
30 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
6 nationwide
Affected Population
1.4M estimated
Avg Detected Level
18.1539 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Uranium in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 30 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Mining National Overview
Total Tests
44
Violations Found
6
Violation Rate
13.6%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
69
Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust
C OK3010001 Oklahoma City, OK
687,725 served
89
Providence Water Supply Board
B RI0018010 Providence, RI
190,934 served
41
Louisville Water South
D KY0560002 Louisville, KY
200,000 served
85
South Central CT Regional Water Authority
B CT0500011 New Haven, CT
134,023 served
85
City Water Light and Power Springfield
B IL1670100 Springfield, IL
114,230 served
85
Charleston Public Water Supply
B SC1010002 Charleston, SC
80,000 served
Treatment Methods
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Coagulation/filtration
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Uranium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Uranium and why is it in drinking water?
Uranium is a radionuclide contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Mining.
What are the health effects of Uranium in drinking water?
Increased risk of cancer, kidney toxicity
What is the EPA limit for Uranium?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Uranium is 30 μg/L.
How can I remove Uranium from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Uranium include: Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis, Coagulation/filtration.
How do I test my water for Uranium?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Uranium levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.