Nukuʻalofa – Tongan authorities have issued an urgent public health advisory directing all residents of ‘Eua not to drink or use water for cooking from the island’s public supply or any bore.
The Ministry of Health, in consultation with the Tonga Water Board, Officials said recent testing of the ‘Eua water supply and bores detected lead (Pb) levels exceeding World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for drinking water, making it unsafe for consumption.
Boiling the water does not reduce the lead content.
The Ministry said the current water may be used only for bathing and non‑consumption purposes.
Rainwater collected from water tanks and all commercially bottled water remain safe for drinking.
Authorities said they will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the public.
The advisory was issued by the Ministry of Health and the Tonga Water Board as they work to identify the source of contamination and ensure the safety of the ‘Eua community.
Why lead in drinking water is dangerous
Lead in drinking water poses a serious health hazard, and no level of lead exposure is considered safe. Health authorities worldwide warn that even small amounts can accumulate in the body and cause long‑term harm.
Children are especially vulnerable: exposure can lead to permanent neurological damage, learning and behavioural difficulties, anemia, and impaired growth. In adults, lead ingestion is linked to kidney problems, high blood pressure, and reproductive issues.
Lead typically enters drinking water through corroding pipes, plumbing fixtures, or solder, particularly in systems installed before 1986, when many countries—Tonga included—had not yet fully transitioned away from lead‑containing materials. When pipes corrode, lead can leach into household water, making the supply unsafe.
Boiling water does not remove lead; in fact, it can increase its concentration as water evaporates and the remaining lead becomes more concentrated.
Health authorities stress that contaminated water must not be consumed under any circumstances and should only be used for non‑consumption purposes until testing confirms it is safe again.
