Radium in Montevideo, MN Drinking Water
Radium data for Montevideo, Minnesota · 7,433 residents · 1 ZIP code
Not every city shows Radium in its water data; in Montevideo, Minnesota, federal sampling has confirmed its presence at detectable levels in at least one recent reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-06-04
Radium in Montevideo Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Montevideo, Minnesota drinking water at a maximum level of 8.3 pCi/L — 1.66x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 7,433 residents across 1 ZIP code in Montevideo.
Montevideo's overall water quality grade is C (60/100).
Is Radium in Montevideo Water Safe?
Radium was detected in Montevideo 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56265 | 8.3 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
Average radium level across Montevideo: 8.3 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 Montevideo 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.