An estimated 5,000 gallons of treated sewage water was accidentally discharged yesterday into the ocean off Pepeekeo on the Big Island, the state Department of Health’s Clean Water Branch said.

The discharge was caused by an “interruption in chlorination” at the Kuaimano Wastewater Treatment Plant, the department reported. The discharged water was treated, but not chlorinated.

While the affected area is not readily accessible from the shoreline, boaters and divers are advised to stay clear of the area for the next couple of days.