SEATTLE (AP) - The Washington Department of Ecology says the amount of sewage overflow that forced a Seattle beach to close is 10 times more than original estimates.
KCPQ-TV reports officials said earlier this week that 16,000 gallons had spilled into Puget Sound at Golden Gardens Park. Officials said Friday that additional samples now show about 165,000 gallons of sewage overflow.
Seattle Public Utilities says the overflow was caused by a blockage of tree roots and materials such as wipes in the sewer system north of the park.
Signs have been posted and the public is advised to avoid contact with the water in the affected area until further notice.
Heath officials say swimming in the contaminated water can cause gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses.
The overflow has been stopped, but water samples are still showing high levels of bacteria.
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Information from: KCPQ-TV, http://q13fox.com/
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