MYAKKA CITY, Fla. — Manatee County leaders said test results show several wells in the Myakka City area have been contaminated by Hurricane Ian floodwaters.

"Anyone in this area who has had their wellhead overtopped by that water should have their well tested to make sure it's ok to drink," said Bill Logan, Manatee County spokesman. "If it's not ok we've got the water here for them." ​

The county set up a water-distribution site on Thursday at the Myakka City Community Center. Testing kits and disinfectants can also be found at the location.

Heavy rains from Hurricane Ian caused the Myakka River to crest about 12 feet above the flood stage.

Farm owner Paul Bechler said his well was overtopped and he planned to use a solution to treat the water.

"This is going to give us step-by-step instructions of how we're going to pour this chlorine solution down into our well to try to sanitize our wellhead," he said. "We had four feet of water over our well head." 

The water distribution site will be available until the community's water is deemed safe. The county is also working with contractors to provide disinfection services to citizens with contaminated wells.