Residents of ’Eua have been warned not to drink or use water for cooking from the public water supply or any bore water source after testing revealed elevated levels of lead.
The Ministry of Health issued a public notice today, Tuesday 3 March 2026, following test results from the Tonga Water Board, which confirmed that lead (Pb) levels in the island’s water supply exceed guidelines set by the World Health Organization.
Public Health Warning
All residents are advised not to drink or use public or bore water for cooking, as boiling does not reduce lead levels.
Health officials confirmed that the public water supply remains safe for bathing and other non-consumption uses. However, rainwater collected in tanks and bottled water are considered safe for drinking and food preparation.
The Ministry said the advisory was issued following guidance from the WHO to raise public awareness and reduce potential health risks.
Source of Contamination Unknown
Chief Environmental Health Officer Sela Fa’u said authorities have not yet identified the source of the contamination.
“At this point we have yet to identify where the lead came from,” she said, adding that investigations are ongoing.
“It will be an ongoing task.”
The Ministry of Health and Tonga Water Board said they will continue monitoring water quality and provide updates to the public as more information becomes available.
Residents are urged to follow official advice until further notice.
Public health testing
Lead levels in water are measured to ensure safety, as lead is a potent neurotoxin with no safe consumption level, especially for children and pregnant women. Lead bioaccumulates in the body and causes severe health issues, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and high blood pressure
