Placer County officials have issued a health advisory for the Carnelian Bay area of Lake Tahoe following a significant sewage spill on Thursday evening. The spill has led to the closure of Carnelian West Beach and Patton Beach as cleanup efforts continue and water quality tests are conducted.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on July 18, when a private contractor struck the North Tahoe Public Utility District’s (NTPUD) main sewer export pipeline. The break resulted in the overflow of 125,000 gallons of untreated sewage, with 85,000 gallons reaching Lake Tahoe. Emergency response teams managed to recover 40,000 gallons immediately.
Health and Safety Measures
The affected area extends from Carnelian West Beach northeast to Manzanita Avenue and southwest to 4600 North Lake Boulevard. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with the lake water in these areas due to potentially high bacteria levels that could cause illness.
Response and Cleanup
NTPUD crews were quick to respond, repairing the pipeline and disinfecting the impacted area by Friday afternoon. Despite these efforts, the health advisory remains in effect as ongoing water quality tests show elevated bacteria levels. Officials expect initial results within the next 24 hours and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
Implications for Visitors
While the public drinking water system is not at risk, those with private water intakes from the lake should be cautious. Placer County Environmental Health specialists have posted advisory notices along the lakeshore and informed property owners in the affected areas.
Comparisons and Context
Lake Tahoe holds over 36 cubic miles of water. Although the spill of 85,000 gallons of sewage is significant, it is relatively minor compared to the vast volume of the lake. To put it in perspective, it's akin to a small spill in a massive swimming pool. However, due to the concentrated nature of the spill, it’s essential to heed the advisory to ensure safety.
Official Statements
“We remain entirely focused on restoring our operation,” NTPUD stated. Placer County officials continue to urge the public to stay informed through updates provided on their website.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has also announced a federal investigation into the incident to ensure compliance with passenger protection requirements.
For More Information
Updates on the ongoing health advisory and closure areas can be found at NTPUD.
