Abstract: To reveal the characteristics and risk levels of heavy metal pollution in surface water from Weinan segment of Weihe River, the concentrations of Hg, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu and Cr were measured and analyzed by using Nemerow multi-factor index method, the Hakanson potential ecological risk index method and the health risk assessment model. Results revealed that the concentrations of Hg, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu and Cr in the surface water of Weinan segment of Weihe River from 2017 to 2019 were all within the limits of classes I-III, according to the Environmental Quality Standards for Surface Water (GB 3838-2002). The Nemero comprehensive pollution index of heavy metals in water was lower than 0.7, indicating a clean level. The potential ecological risk of heavy metals in water ranged from low level to moderate level, with Pb as the main ecological risk. The health risks caused by non-carcinogenic heavy metals in the study area were all lower than those caused by carcinogenic heavy metals, the health risks caused by drinking water routes were much higher than those caused by skin contact routes, and heavy metal pollution posed a greater threat to children than to adults. The research results offer theoretical basis for risk management and pollution control of heavy metals in river basin.

Key words: heavy metal in water, pollution level, health risk, ecological risk, Weihe River