Sanitary sewer overflows reported in Saraland, Bayou La Batre

MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WALA) - Several cities in Mobile County have reported sanitary sewer overflows, Mobile County Health Department said.

Saraland Water and Sewer Service has reported on Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO) that occurred on Friday and Sunday. The events were the result of the strong storms that crossed over Mobile County.

The initial SSO was from a manhole located on the southwest side of Celeste Road between Camelot Drive and Lafayette Drive. More than 50,000 gallons and less than 75,000 gallons overflowed into Bayou Sara.

The second SSO was from a manhole outside of the lift station located east of Highway 43 and south of Bayou Sara Avenue. In addition to the heavy rainfall, a power flicker caused a pump controller to malfunction. Less than 1,000 gallons spilled into Bayou Sara.

The Utilities Board of the city of Bayou La Batre has reported on a Sanitary Sewer Overflow that occurred Tuesday from a manhole near 14358 Shell Belt Road. Officials said an equipment failure caused the overflow. Less than 1,000 gallons spilled and the discharged did not reach a body of water, according to the MCHD.

Health officials said Bayou La Batre reported another overflow that happened Wednesday due to a pump station mechanical failure. The spill occurred from a manhole near 14090 Shell Belt Road. More than 1,000 gallons and less than 10,000 gallons were discharged but did not reach a body of water, the MCHD said.

Dr. Kevin Philip 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 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 Bayou Sara for recreational purposes because of these overflows. 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.