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Plastic drinking water pipes exposed to high heat can leak hazardous chemicals

Lab tests may help explain high levels of benzene in water after recent California wildfires

a home burning in the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire

This home northwest of Santa Cruz, Calif., burned during the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Water testing in the region showed elevated benzene levels in drinking water after fires swept through.

AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez

By Megan Sever

- More than 2 years ago

In August, a massive wildfire tore through the San Lorenzo Valley north of Santa Cruz, Calif.,