Tap Water Declared Unfit for Consumption in Iznate Due to Elevated Chlorates

Municipal authorities in Iznate have officially declared the town's tap water supply unfit for human consumption. Routine quality testing revealed elevated levels of chlorates that surpass legally permitted health thresholds, prompting immediate preventative restrictions across the municipal network.

Until further notice, tap water throughout Iznate cannot be used for drinking or for preparing food and drinks. To mitigate the disruption, local officials have organised a free distribution of bottled drinking water for local residents and families.

What Travellers and Day-Trippers Should Know

Iznate is a picturesque whitewashed village nestled in the hills of the Axarquía, popular with visitors exploring inland Andalusia, the raisin route (*Ruta de la Pasa*), and nearby mountain trails. If you are staying in a holiday rental or visiting the village on a day excursion, it is essential to take standard precautions regarding water use.

• Do not drink from the tap: Avoid tap water in private accommodations, public fountains, and holiday homes.
• Cooking and food hygiene: Use bottled water for boiling pasta, preparing tea or coffee, washing salad greens, and making ice cubes.
• Personal hygiene: Water from the municipal grid remains suitable for showering, washing hands, doing laundry, and cleaning dishes.

Nearby towns and coastal destinations, including Nerja, Torrox, and Vélez-Málaga, operate on separate supply infrastructures and are not affected by this specific notice.

Free Bottled Water Distribution

To ensure access to clean drinking supplies, municipal authorities are supplying free bottled water directly to local households. If you are staying in self-catering accommodation within the municipality, check with your host or property manager regarding the collection procedure or arrange to purchase large water carafes from nearby grocery stores and supermarkets.

Local technical teams are monitoring the situation and conducting follow-up testing. The restrictions will remain in place until chlorate levels return to legal, safe limits and health authorities lift the advisory.

Good to know

• Location: Iznate, Axarquía (Málaga province).
• Current restriction: Tap water cannot be used for drinking or cooking.
• Permitted uses: Bathing, handwashing, and household cleaning.
• Assistance: Municipal distribution of bottled water is underway for local families.
• Travel impact: Local bars and eateries adapt using bottled supplies; holidaymakers should buy bottled water for drinking and food prep.