Contamination Continues to Pose Threat for Arkansas River

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas health officials are continuing to urge  people to avoid contact with the Arkansas River from central Wichita south to the Oklahoma state line. The state Department of Health and Environment first issued the warning Friday because of elevated levels of bacteria in the water discovered by routine sampling. On Sunday, KDHE said a leak was discovered at a pump station at Wichita's main wastewater treatment plant. Crews were working to repair the leak and determine how much untreated wastewater entered the river. The department says its warning continues for the portion of the river that starts at the bridge over the river for East Lincoln Street and that people should also keep their pets from having contact with the river. KDHE says its investigation is continuing.