Residents in parts of Washington County, Virginia have been placed under a boil water advisory after a disruption in the local water system led to concerns about potential contamination.

County authorities and public utilities officials announced the advisory following a loss of water pressure in certain service areas, a condition that can increase the risk of contaminants entering the distribution network.

As a precautionary measure, households and businesses in the affected zones have been instructed to boil tap water for at least one minute before consuming it, using it for cooking, brushing teeth or preparing beverages.

Officials stated that the advisory will remain in effect until water samples collected from the impacted areas are tested and confirmed safe under state health standards.

Crews are working to restore full system integrity and are conducting flushing operations where necessary to stabilise water quality.

Local authorities have advised vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems, to exercise additional caution during the advisory period.

Bottled water may be used as an alternative where available.

Public works teams continue to monitor the situation and are coordinating with state health officials to ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Residents will be notified once laboratory results confirm that the water supply meets safety requirements and the advisory can be lifted.

Officials emphasised that boil water advisories are precautionary in nature and are issued to protect public health whenever system pressure drops or other disruptions occur that could compromise water quality.