MAWSS reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow 08-12-25

August 12, 2025

MAWSS reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — Mobile Area Water & Sewer System (MAWSS) responded to a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) on August 11 at Clear Creek near Moffett Road. Approximately 34,470 gallons of wastewater overflowed into Clear Creek.

This SSO was caused when a bypass hose being used in a sewer replacement project was removed from a manhole during the rescue of third-party contractors who were trapped inside of the sewer. Two contractors died in the worksite accident, while one other is still hospitalized.

Mobile County Health Officer Dr. Kevin Michaels, who extends our heartfelt sympathies to the families and colleagues of the contractors who lost their lives or were injured in the recent sewer operations incident, 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 Clear Creek for recreational purposes because of this overflow. All seafood harvested in this general area should be thoroughly cooked before eating. People should wash their hands after cleaning seafood and before preparing food.