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Pueblo sewage spill into Arkansas River prompts health warnings

A failed sewage pipe in Pueblo, Colorado, released 4.25 million gallons of raw sewage directly into the Arkansas River. Public health officials have warned people to avoid recreation and contact with river water as far east as Las Animas until at least August 31, 2026, due to extremely high levels of harmful bacteria like E. coli. Individuals using private wells or other private water supplies who suspect contamination should contact the CDPHE for guidance. Update (The Denver Post, 31.08.2026, 11:45): The pipe failure occurred at a wastewater treatment plant. The advisory now extends to people and animals, prohibiting drinking or using untreated river water for food preparation. The affected area now reaches through John Martin Reservoir in Hasty, encompassing Blende, Avondale, and La Junta, and has no immediate timeline for resolution as testing continues. Update (KKTV, 31.08.2026, 11:45): The spill occurred near Confluence Park, beginning on August 26 and stopping on August 27. Downstream drinking water utilities have been notified. Update (FOX21 News, 02.09.2026, 22:05): The spill resulted from a bypass failure during sewage line repairs. Fowler is now explicitly included in the advisory, which is also issued by agriculture officials and specifically prohibits fishing. Update (Colorado Sun, 05.09.2026, 13:20): The spill originated from the City of Pueblo's wastewater treatment facility. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has also issued advisories for 10 state wildlife areas and the Las Animas State Fish Hatchery. Update (Pueblo Health Notice, 05.09.2026, 13:21): The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and local partners have released updated water quality testing results. Update (KKTV, 06.09.2026, 13:25): The leak was stopped with a temporary repair. Officials express confidence in existing drinking water treatment barriers downstream. Update (hydropurewater.com, 14.09.2026, 13:30): The spill resulted from a pipe patch failing at the wastewater treatment plant, causing E. coli levels to exceed Colorado's swim-beach standard. Downstream drinking water systems were able to cut their intakes. All-clear (watereport.com, 14.09.2026, 17:20): Although the leak was stopped with a temporary repair by September 6, no official all-clear was issued regarding the public health advisory.

Location

Pueblo, Colorado

Country

🇺🇸 USA

Start

01/08/2026, 02:00

End

30/09/2026, 07:18

Event type

Microbiological, Limit exceeded, Chemical contamination, Boil water advisory

Status

Status unconfirmed

Region

Colorado

Last updated

30/09/2026, 07:18