Saraland reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow 04.14.26

April 14, 2026

Saraland reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — Saraland Water and Sewer Service has reported on a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) that took place on April 13. The SSO occurred at 112 Saraland Loop (parking lot behind shopping center). The cause was a malfunction of bypass pump floats.

The amount of the overflow is estimated to be 1,200 gallons. According to Saraland officials, the SSO reached a drainage ditch that enters Bayou Sara. A vacuum truck was used to suction up the spill and the area was cleaned.

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.