Swimming advisory in effect for Chestermere Lake

While most of the heavy rainfall looks to be behind us this week, the effects are still being felt by some communities.

Due to the heavy rain, a swimming advisory is in effect for Chestermere Lake effective immediately.

"Test results indicated increased and excessive levels of enterococcus faecalis (fecal matter) present in the water. Fecal bacteria are often found elevated at several lakes in Alberta during heavy rain events," read a press release from Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the City of Chestermere.

According to AHS, contact with the water could result in gastrointestinal illness, and you could also get skin, eye and ear infections.

"As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any river, lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea," read the release.

While swimming and wading aren't permitted, the press release says you may still use boats on the lake, so long as you don't enter the water.

An update will be provided in the coming days as city officials and AHS continues to test the water. Results are expected to be processed early next week.

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