Nearly 440,000 Gallons of Wastewater Overflow Into Mobile Waterways After Heavy Rains

The Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS) reported that approximately 439,445 gallons of wastewater overflowed into Mobile-area waterways following heavy rains on September 15-16, 2021.

MAWSS identified 24 locations where wastewater overflowed as a result of the rainfall. All overflows had stopped by the time of the report except for one remaining site on Airport Boulevard at an easement near Halls Mill Creek.

To mitigate the impact of heavy rains infiltrating sewer lines, MAWSS diverts wastewater to large temporary storage facilities. The diversion reduces wastewater volumes in the collection system and helps maintain conveyance capacity during severe weather events.

Area residents are advised to take precautions when using Eslava Creek for recreational purposes due to the overflows. Health officials recommend that all seafood harvested in the general area of the overflow sites should be thoroughly cooked before eating. Residents should also wash their hands after cleaning seafood and before preparing food.

Sewage overflows during heavy rain events are a recurring challenge for Mobile’s aging sewer infrastructure. MAWSS has invested millions in recent years in overflow mitigation projects, including large storage basins designed to capture excess flow during storms.

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management oversees compliance with discharge permits for municipal sewer systems across the state.