CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Water officials say a cracked manhole caused a wastewater overflow on Somerdale Lane on August 28th.
Around 3,830 gallons of waste overflow reached Briar Creek in the Catawba River Watershed, according to a news release.
“A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help,” says Cam Coley, spokesperson at Charlotte Water. “Anything put in plumbing or a manhole can cause wastewater overflows, spilling raw sewage into your street, your creek or even inside your own home. Even products labeled as ‘flushable’ do not breakdown in the sewer system and can contribute to clogging.”
Law requires wastewater collection or treatment works to issue a news release when an untreated wastewater discharge of a 1,000 gallons or more reaches surface waters.
Charlotte Water crews say to prevent this overflow you should be careful of what you are flushing, putting down the sink, and making sure to take expired oils and grease to a full-service recycling center.
Charlotte Water says to call 311 or 704-336-7600 if anyone suspects a sewer spill, and they respond 24 hours-a-day.
