An estimated 20,000 gallons of wastewater spilled Friday morning in the city of Pueblo, and may travel into Runyon Lake and the Arkansas River. As a result, a health advisory is being issued.

According to the Pueblo City-County Health Department, the spill occurred at Court and 6th Street around 11:10 a.m. Most of the water entered the storm sewer system, which empties into Runyon Lake. In turn, the lake discharges to the Arkansas River upstream of Fountain Creek.

The wastewater is projected to reach Runyon Lake by Friday evening. The Health Department says that could cause increased bacteria in the lower natural Historic Arkansas River Park area, Thomas Phelps Creek, Runyon Lake and the Arkansas River. They are advising people to stay out of these waterways until testing confirms the waterways are safe.

Warning signs are being hung around those areas.

The Health Department offers these recommendations:

-Do not allow children or pets to play in the water, nor allow children to play with toys that have been in contact with the water.

-Individuals who come in contact with the water should wash their hands frequently with soap and clean warm water. If clothing/shoes get wet, they should be removed and washed in warm water.

-If a person is exposed to the water and has open wounds, they should contact a physician or local health department for guidance regarding receiving tetanus and/or immunizations.