Thousands of gallons of sewage released into Ventura River

Update [1/17/2019 4:30 p.m.]

Thousands of gallons of sewage have been released into the Ventura River, according to the Ventura County Environmental Health Division.

Approximately 4,500 gallons of sewage has been discharged into the river because of flooding at the Ventura RV Park, according to Ventura Regional Sanitation District (VRSD) officials.

It happened around 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17.

(photo: Mike Sluyter)

There were another 50 gallons of sewage that spilled into the Ventura River as well due to flooding of the Emma Wood Group Camp at Emma Wood and Main Street Ventura.

VRSD officials issued a warning earlier int he week to avoid body contact with all stormwater runoff and ocean water at all Ventura County beaches. They are now further advising to avoid water in the Ventura River near Main Street and the beaches near the mouth of the Ventura River due to the sewage contamination.

(photo: Mike Sluyter)

Any shellfish on or from Ventura County beaches should not be eaten.

The advisory remains in effect for 72 hours after the rain stops falling.

(photo: Mike Sluyter)

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Flooding is being reported throughout Ventura County after Thursday mornings significant storm.

The National Weather Service says six to seven itses of rain in the Mountains of eastern Santa Barbara County and western Ventura County is making it’s way downhill and rapidly increasing levels at the banks of the Ventura River and Matilija Creek.

The Ventura River at Foster Park has reached minor flood stage and is expected to continue at this level for several hours, according to the National Weather Service out of Oxnard. A flood warning has been issued for the Ventura River at Foster park unitl 2 p.m. Thursday.

Minor flooding is also impacting Ventura Beach RV Resort off of Main Street and near Highway 101.

It is advised that people do not drive cars through flooded areas.