Crews in Dixie fix sewer lines

ST. GEORGE — Crews in Washington County were expected by Tuesday to fix sewer line breaks caused by flooding, but health officials continued to urge people to stay away from the Santa Clara River and the downstream Virgin River until they can confirm they're safe.

Meanwhile, the Utah Drinking Water Board on Tuesday authorized $542,500 in grants and no-interest loans to help the Gunlock Special Service District and the city of St. George repair water lines and other infrastructure damaged in last week's flood.

Sewer line breaks have resulted in some 1.5 million gallons of untreated sewage entering the Santa Clara River, and the downstream Virgin River, every day, the State Department of Environmental Quality said.

Coming into contact with the potentially contaminated water can expose people to disease, the department reported. Health officials are encouraging those who have been exposed to the river water to wash their hands in hot soapy water and, if they get sick, to seek medical attention.