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Swimming halted at three Gimli beaches after untreated sewage flows towards Lake Winnipeg

A sign on Gimli Beach warns people about possible high levels of bacteria. Jordan Pearn/Global News

The province has recommended not swimming at three Gimli-area beaches after untreated sewage flowed towards Lake Winnipeg on Wednesday.

The Medical Officer of Health for the Interlake Eastern regional Health Authority posted a notice at Loni Beach, Gimli Public Beach and the swimming area near the Viking Statue and Moonlight Bay, cautioning people against going into the water.

The RM of Gimli posted a notice on its website warning people away.

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“Due to a construction related incident by a private contractor on Center Street, the main sewer pipe was damaged resulting in untreated waste entering into the drainage system that leads to the lake,” it reads.

“Water quality testing is being completed and results will be posted as soon as they are available.”

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The results of the tests are expected back late Thursday, said the province.

“This event does not affect other beaches in the Lake Winnipeg South Basin.  The waste-water treatment system has been repaired and no further release is expected,” they said.

Gimli’s annual film festival began on Wednesday. It’s unknown when the signs will come down.

WATCH: The 18th Gimli Film Festival features films from all over the world, and almost half are directed by women this year

Click to play video: 'Gender parity at the 18th Gimli Film Festival'
Gender parity at the 18th Gimli Film Festival

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