MAWSS reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow 08.20.25

August 20, 2025

MAWSS reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — A Mobile Area Water & Sewer System (MAWSS) supervisor discovered a third-party Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) at 5641 U.S. Highway 90 West in Mobile on August 8.

Although MAWSS was not responsible for the SSO, officials did make the Alabama Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) aware of the issue occurring on private property. The overflow was caused by the customer’s private grinder pump.

The total wastewater volume was 330 gallons. Of that total, 100 gallons reached Rabbit Creek while 230 gallons were contained. The owner was informed they will need a plumber to make necessary repairs.

Mobile County Health Officer Dr. Kevin Michaels 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 Rabbit 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.