HENDERSON, N.C. -- More than 8,000 customers in Vance County are under a water advisory but officials say it's still safe to drink.

• Officials detected high levels of the contaminant trihalomethanes or THM.
• The acceptable THM level is .08 mg/L but an inspection revealed average levels as high as .1 mg/L.
• Officials caution people with weak immune system to consult a doctor.

Kerr Lake Regional Water System sent a letter out to customers earlier this month informing them of a water system “violation”. Officials detected high levels of the contaminant trihalomethanes or THM. The chemical is a by-product formed as chlorine treats the dirty water. THM can build over time and the dirtier the water, the higher the THM levels.

The acceptable THM level is .08 mg/L but an inspection revealed average levels as high as .1 mg/L. Director Christy Lipscomb says this doesn't pose an immediate health threat and customers aren't required to boil water or take any other action. She cautions people with weak immune system to consult a doctor.

“This is just an advisory level, so it is not life threatening,” said Lipscomb.

Lipscomb says crews are working to bring the THM levels back down to standard. They plan flush the pipes with fresh water. They hope to finish the project within the next three months.