Across the water systems that serve Raeford, North Carolina, Radium has appeared in EPA compliance samples — standard municipal treatment targets this contaminant, though detections in the compliance record indicate it has reached household taps at measurable levels.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05

Radium in Raeford Tap Water

Radium has been detected in Raeford, North Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 3.9 pCi/L — below the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).

This analysis covers 43,980 residents across 1 ZIP code in Raeford.

Raeford's overall water quality grade is B (81/100).

Is Radium in Raeford Water Safe?

Radium was detected in Raeford 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

Average radium level across Raeford: 3.9 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 Raeford Water

1. Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
2. Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
3. Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
4. GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.

Related

• Radium — National Overview
• North Carolina Water Quality
• Raeford Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code