Northam update

 Water Corporation is advising people not to swim, fish or recreate in the Avon River in the vicinity of Northam until further notice as a precautionary measure, as wastewater* may have overflowed into the river today.

The heavy rainfall in the Northam area has caused stormwater damage to the wastewater treatment plant storage ponds adjacent to the Avon River.

Water Corporation crews are onsite and have deployed pumps to reduce the level of the ponds and minimise further damage to the pond structure.

The Department of Health, Department of Environment Regulation and the Shire of Northam have been notified of the issue.

Water Corporation apologises for any inconvenience this may cause Northam residents.

A further statement will be issued once the all clear has been given.

* Wastewater is 99.97 per cent water as it comes mostly from showers, baths and washing machines