The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) is urging residents to avoid contact with the Hudson River shoreline in Rockland County due to an ongoing sewage discharge from the Yonkers Sewage Treatment System.

As a precaution, residents should not swim, wade, kayak, paddleboard, boat with water contact, jet ski, fish, or engage in other water recreational activities that could bring them in contact with Hudson River water in the affected areas.

Water contaminated with sewage can make people sick. Exposure to sewage can cause stomach illnesses like diarrhea, skin rash, and other infections.

The RCDOH is working with state and local agencies to monitor the situation.

“This Fourth of July holiday weekend, families will be spending time outdoors and near water,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “Our goal is to protect the health and safety of Rockland residents. Please avoid potentially affected areas of the Hudson River until testing shows that the water is safe.”

Residents are encouraged to choose other locations for swimming and water activities this holiday weekend. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.