High levels of E. coli present in Richmond sections of James River

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Significantly high levels of E. coli were detected when testing samples from the James River from several points near Richmond's downtown area.

According to James River Watch, an organization that monitors the status of the river, testing completed during the last week indicates an increased presence of E. coli near Belle Isle and Brown's Island.

The data is measured through the amount of colony-forming units (CFU) per 100 milliliters (mL) of water.

For example, at Rockett's Landing, testing shows 2,420 CFU per 100 mL in the water. To put that number into context, the standard for Virginia's freshwater areas is 235 CFU per 100 mL.

Additionally, 2,420 CFU per 100 mL is the maximum reading given this measurement method, implying that the bacteria levels could have been higher than the number provided.

Data also showed 501 CFU per 100 mL at Chapel Island, 328 CFU per 100 mL at 14th Street and 270 CFU per 100 mL at the rope swing near Tredegar.

While the cause of the E. coli level increase is not explicitly known, heavy rainfall events -- like those that Central Virginia has seen in the past week -- can cause sewage overflow in certain areas of the city.

To view the status of the James River, visit the James River Watch map.