Nashville, TN (WOKI) The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation issued a temporary water contact advisory after the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.

“In the aftermath of unprecedented flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, several wastewater treatment plants have been compromised and are temporarily unable to completely treat effluent before it enters receiving waters. In addition, sewer line crossings may have been severed or damaged allowing raw sewage to enter streams, and individual septic systems may be compromised across the region.” – Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

Officials said the warning was out of an abundance of caution and not based upon specific water quality data.

This advisory includes surface waters in the Nolichucky, French Broad, Pigeon, Doe, and Watauga River as well as any other flooded areas.

They assumed the floodwater is carrying bacteria and should be avoided. If you come into contact with it, wash the area with clean water and soap as soon as possible.

“The health of our citizens is top priority at TDEC, and we urge everyone in these areas to follow this advisory,” TDEC Commissioner David Salyers said.

Officials said they were staying in contact with local facilities to resolve the issues as quickly as possible.