RENO PROBERT: Some drinking water in Kennewick, Washington, still has high levels of “forever chemicals.” Since 20-24, the city has found PFAs chemicals above state standards. NWPB’s senior environmental correspondent Courtney Flatt explains.

COURTNEY FLATT: This year, Washington state lowered the amount of PFAs allowed in drinking water. The standards are measured in parts per trillion. One part per trillion is about one drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Still, Kennewick’s water is elevated for two types of these “forever chemicals” in more than half of its drinking water supply.

The city is building a treatment facility to help filter out PFAs. The facility will cost about $33 million. It’s expected to be up and running by 2028.

Exposure to some PFAs, or “forever chemicals,” has been linked to different health problems. Like low birth weights, an increased risk of some cancers, and decreased fertility in women.

The state Department of Health recommends using alternative water sources for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or making infant formula.

I’m Courtney Flatt.