September 9, 2021

MAWSS reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflows

MOBILE, Ala. — Mobile Area Water & Sewer System (MAWSS) responded to multiple Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO) as a result of heavy rains in the Mobile area on September 8.

The MAWSS sewer system is designed to collect and convey wastewater to a MAWSS wastewater treatment plant. During heavy rains, stormwater infiltrates and inundates aging sewer lines causing manholes to overflow. MAWSS is pursuing capital projects to reduce the number of SSO’s caused by wet weather.

Below are the locations, final estimated amounts, and receiving waters. All overflows have stopped:

Location                                                  Estimated Gallons                        Receiving Water

1301 Gulf Field Dr. W.                            28,500                                            Eslava Creek

1710 Gulf Field Dr. N.                             29,240                                            Eslava Creek

766 Johnston Ave.                                   19,875                                            Eslava Creek

1753 Maryvale St.                                   4,375                                              Eslava Creek

1307 Gulf Field Dr. W.                            1,450                                              Eslava Creek

1352 Gulf Field Dr. E.                             2,700                                              Eslava Creek

Dr. Bernard H. Eichold II, Health Officer for Mobile County, advises area residents to take precautions when encountering any standing water that may have accumulated because of these overflows. 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 Eslava Creek for recreational purposes because of these overflows. All seafood harvested in this general area should be thoroughly cooked before eating. People should wash hands after cleaning seafood and before preparing food.