Utilities in both the Eaton and Palisades fire burn scars have reported detecting the carcinogen benzene in parts of their water systems. State regulators have recommended the utilities issue “do not drink” and “do not boil” notices, which still permit residents to use the water for showers, handwashing, laundry and other daily activities. The state said the order attempts to balance safety with the need for usable water, while some scientists warned that using the water, even for purposes other than drinking or cooking, could pose a risk. … So far, two of Altadena’s three customer-owned water utilities have detected the carcinogen.

Other L.A. fire runoff news:

• The Guardian (London): The EPA weighed two LA beachfront sites for toxic waste sorting. These ‘hippies and hicks’ revolted
• NBC4 (Los Angeles): Palisades Fire-related ocean water advisory to remain in effect