No Swimming, Kayaking or Eating Fish From the Hudson River

The Department of Environmental Protection is warning all residents along the Hudson River to steer clear of the water, and whatever swims in it.

A fire at a New York City wastewater treatment plant on Wednesday caused a shutdown of that facility and a continuing discharge of raw sewage into the Hudson River, according to a press release from the DEP.

The DEP is doing scientific modeling to determine whether or when any New Jersey land might be impacted, and is also monitoring water quality to assure there is no threat to public health and safety, according to the department. 

"New Jersey is aggressively monitoring the situation, and working closely with the New York City and New York State environmental departments to fully assess the potential impacts of the flow of raw sewage into New Jersey's waters,'' said New Jersey DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. "The DEP has employed emergency response and water monitoring staff to assess water conditions and potential impacts on shellfish beds and recreational uses.''

On Friday afternoon, the city of Hoboken sent out a warning, advising residents and visitors not to swim, kayak or consume fish or crabs from the Hudson River until further notice.