MAWSS reports Sanitary Sewer Overflow 05.28.26

May 28, 2026

MAWSS reports evidence of Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — Mobile Area Water & Sewer System (MAWSS) found evidence of a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) on May 27 near the intersection of McVay Drive and Navco Road that resulted from heavy rainfall.

The SSO was not active at the time the evidence was discovered and suggests the wastewater overflowed into Eslava Creek. The estimated amount of overflow was not available.

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.