2 Lake Washington beaches reopen, bacteria levels lower after sewage spill
Power outage causes sewage spill in Lake Washington
King County officials said a power outage at the East Pine Street pump station caused thousands of gallons of sewage to enter Lake Washington.
LAKE WASHINGTON, Wash. - Two beaches on Lake Washington that were closed after Monday's sewage spill have reopened, according to Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR).
On Thursday, SPR announced on Twitter that Howell Park and Madrona Beach had low bacteria concentrations in the water, meaning that the water is now safe to swim in. However, Matthews Beach Park will remain closed until further notice.
Earlier in the week, King County officials warned people to not swim or go into the water at several beaches and parks, saying the water polluted by Monday's sewage spill could make people and pets sick.
The following beaches were closed:
- Gene Coulon
- Madrona Beach
- Matthews Beach
- Meydenbauer Bay Beach
- New Castle Beach
Test results will be updated once a week, and officials say they are usually on Wednesday afternoons.