Radium in La Canada Flintridge, CA Drinking Water
Radium data for La Canada Flintridge, California · 10,070 residents · 2 ZIP codes
SDWIS federal records include Radium detections tied to water systems serving La Canada Flintridge, California.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Radium in La Canada Flintridge Tap Water
Radium has been detected in La Canada Flintridge, California drinking water at a maximum level of 7.9 pCi/L — 1.58x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 10,070 residents across 2 ZIP codes in La Canada Flintridge.
La Canada Flintridge's overall water quality grade is B (76/100).
Is Radium in La Canada Flintridge Water Safe?
Radium was detected in La Canada Flintridge water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce radium levels further.
Radium Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 91011 | 7.9 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
| 91012 | 7.9 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
Average radium level across La Canada Flintridge: 7.9 pCi/L
Health Effects of Radium
- Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
- The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
- Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
- No safe threshold for radioactive contamination
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.
How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water
- Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
- Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
- Mining and industrial waste
- Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)
What to Do About Radium in La Canada Flintridge Water
- Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
- Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
- Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
- GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.