Xylenes are chemicals in gasoline and solvents. They enter water from industrial spills or leaking fuel tanks. High exposure can damage the nervous system.

Xylenes are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) commonly found in petroleum products and industrial solvents. They can contaminate water sources through industrial spills, leaking underground storage tanks, or improper disposal of chemicals. The EPA measures xylenes in parts per billion (ppb) and has established a maximum contaminant level to protect public health. Water treatment facilities use air stripping or activated carbon filtration to remove xylenes from drinking water supplies.