Saraland reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow 07-07-25

July 7, 2025

Saraland reports on Sanitary Sewer Overflow

MOBILE, Ala. — Saraland Water and Sewer Service has reported on a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) that began on July 6 and ended on July 7. The SSO occurred from a manhole at 23 Bethal Forrest Drive South.

Saraland officials said the event was caused by the collapse of the main sewer line entering the plant. Saraland had had a crew onsite throughout the night and multiple crews onsite today repairing the sewer main.

According to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, the influent headworks filled with sand and gravel from the collapse. This caused the system to backup and led the manhole on Bethal Forrest Drive to overflow.

The amount of the SSO is estimated to be between 100,000 and 250,000 gallons. ADEM reports the overflow reached Norton Creek.

Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County, 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 Norton 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.