Lake Norman residents are being urged to stay out of the water after approximately 2,000 gallons of raw sewage spilled into the lake, prompting a swimming advisory for Charlotte’s biggest lake.
The Lincoln County Health Director issued the advisory at 3 pm Monday, August 3, after untreated wastewater leaked into an unnamed cove near 8001 Shore Drive in Denver, North Carolina.
Officials said the spill was caused by recent heavy rainfall, which triggered a short circuit in a junction box and caused a nearby lift station to malfunction. Residents are advised not to swim, drink, or bathe in the water in the affected area because it may be contaminated with fecal coliform bacteria, which can pose severe health risks. Those on well water are advised to test their water using at-home test kits.
The Killian Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant is collecting water samples to determine when bacteria levels return to safe limits. The results will be sent to the Lincoln County Public Utilities Department, which will coordinate with the health department.
The swimming advisory will remain in effect until testing confirms fecal coliform levels meet North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality safety guidelines.
