Bayou La Batre’s Sanitary Sewer Overflow updated

January 3, 2023

Bayou La Batre’s Sanitary Sewer Overflow updated

MOBILE, Ala. — The Utilities Board of the City of Bayou La Batre previously reported a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) that started at 12:30 p.m. on December 30 and ended at noon on December 31. The cause was a mechanical failure at the wastewater treatment plant located on 14667 Railroad Street in Coden.

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management has reduced the estimated amount of the overflow. The SSO is now recorded as being more than 500,000 gallons and less than 750,000 gallons. The overflow reached a drainage ditch that empties into Portersville Bay.

Dr. Kevin P. Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County, advises area residents to take precautions when coming into contact with any standing water that may have accumulated as a result of this overflow. Those who have come into direct contact with untreated sewage are advised to wash their hands and clothing thoroughly.

Area residents should take precautions when using Portersville Bay for recreational purposes because of this overflow. All seafood harvested in this general area should be thoroughly cooked before eating. People should wash hands after cleaning seafood and before preparing food.