Bayou La Batre reports on another Sanitary Sewer Overflow 03.25.26

March 25, 2026

Bayou La Batre reports on another Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — The Utilities Board of the City of Bayou La Batre responded to a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) on March 24. Officials say the cause was a third-party contractor digging in the right-of-way that damaged a force main at 9200 Shell Belt Road in Coden.

Officials say less than 1,000 gallons were released. This incident took place right next to the SSO that occurred on March 23. Unfortunately, this overflow ran into the drainage ditch that empties into Portersville Bay.

A SSO happens when untreated or partially treated sewage leaves the sanitary sewer system before reaching a wastewater treatment plant, such as from a manhole, broken pipe, pump station, or building cleanout. Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause diarrhea, vomiting, skin infections, and other illnesses.

Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County, reminds residents to avoid contact with affected water, soil, and any obvious sewage, keep children and pets away from ditches, creeks, flooded areas, and standing water that may be contaminated, and not to swim, wade, or fish in posted areas or in water that looks or smells contaminated.

Most importantly if you have contact with possibly contaminated water or soil, wash skin and clothing thoroughly with soap and clean water as soon as possible.