Haligonians urged to stay out of water in harbour until further notice

Haligonians are being urged to stay out of Halifax Harbour until further notice.

Halifax Water says an emergency pump failure in the wastewater system has resulted in screened combined wastewater/stormwater flowing into the harbour. 

“It is strongly advised that residents and visitors should not go swimming or participate in recreational activities that require water contact,” the utility said in a news release.

“We have made the applicable federal, provincial, and municipal entities aware of this incident.”

Halifax Water said a replacement pump is being sourced and crews are planning emergency repairs.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this necessary infrastructure repair work may cause and are working as safely and quickly as possible to address the issue,” it added.