Public health officials in Tulare County are urging residents to avoid the waters of the Kings River after a sewage spill Monday night in Reedley.
According to officials at around 8:00 p.m. Monday night, a problem at the City of Reedley's Wastewater Treatment Plant on Olsen Avenue resulted in a spill of 63,000 gallons of untreated sewage. At least some of the sewage flowed into the Kings River, which is immediately to the east of the plant.
Residents are being urged to avoid all contact with the river downstream of the plant, including swimming and fishing, until tests indicate that it is safe for humans. Signs warning people of the danger have been posted at known recreation areas along the river.
Tulare County Public Health Department officials also say that farmers should avoid using river water for crops at this time.
The results of water quality tests taken Tuesday downstream from the spill have not yet been disclosed.
