Don't Be Alarmed If You See The Ohio River Turn Red

Thursday, October 11, 2018 at 6:53 AM

By Mike Perleberg @mikedup84

Greater Cincinnati Water Works is putting dye in the river to observe its flow dynamics.

USGS photo.

(Cincinnati, Oh.) - The Ohio River will turn red next week in the name of science.

Greater Cincinnati Water Works and other agencies will put red dye in the river at the Combs-Hehl Bridge in Cincinnati. The idea is to better understand the flow dynamics of the river.

“This study will be done in cooperation with the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANCO) and Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD) and will provide valuable information and data, enabling these organizations to more effectively respond to spills or other contamination events in the river,” according to GCWW.

The dye will be released three times over a two- or three- day period starting October 22. The testing was initially set to be conducted this week, but has been delayed by high water levels on the river.

The dye is safe for people and fish and should not be mistaken for a spill or contamination, the water utility says.

Comments

Add a comment

Display Name *

Location *

Email Address *

Comment *

Rating *

I have read and agreed to the privacy policy and terms & conditions *

Area Jobs

Crunch Time

Events

Grief Share
No matter the circumstances, grief is painful and confusing. GriefShare offers a safe, welcoming group where others understand your loss the emotions of grief.
Aug 10, 2026 at The Cove
Must Love Crafts
Stitch some flowers on to a cute little burlap bag for this month's craft. Remember the Must Love Craft Club is for ages 18 and older.
Aug 10, 2026 at Lawrenceburg Library
Dolly's Summer Tour
Our Dolly Parton stand-up is making her rounds to participating local businesses all summer long! Send in your selfie with Dolly for a chance to win!
Aug 10, 2026