DTLA sewage spill flows into LA River, causes closure of Long Beach beaches

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Beaches are closed in Long Beach and nearby ocean waters are set to be tested after a large sewage spill.

The problem started around 2 p.m. Monday when the top of a sewage pipe collapsed at 6th Street and Mission Road.

"That caused debris to go in through the sewer and cause an overflow. Sewage backed up, sewage could not go through so there's a blockage," said Adel Hagekhalil, assistant director with the Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation.

Thousands of gallons of sewage flowed into streets surrounding a mostly industrial area, but it ultimately made its way into the Los Angeles River. The spill then wound up in Long Beach.

Officials estimate more than 100,000 gallons of sewage reached the ocean. Health officials said all coastal beaches in the city were closed.

Crews are working to clean up the mess while downtown residents do their best to cope with the sewage smell.

The public has been advised to stay away from the spill. The ocean waters will be tested Tuesday morning to determine if it's safe to reopen beaches.