BOSTON — The city of Boston issued a public health warning Friday that sewage discharged into the Harbor, also known as a combined sewer overflow, which was the result of the heavy rain that flooded the region overnight and overwhelmed the sewer system.
The Boston Public Health Commission said these discharges may create a risk to public health, including when a discharge lasts for more than two hours.
The incident occurred between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. when the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority Outflow, MWR203, located in the “upper inner harbor” upstream of the North Washington Street Bridge, experienced a treated discharge or overflow.
“The public is advised to avoid contact with affected water bodies for 48 hours after a discharge or overflow, during rainstorms, and 48 hours after rainstorms end, due to increased health risks from bacteria or pollutants associated with runoff and discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater,” officials said.
BPHC has issued a public health warning related to a recent sewage discharge, also known as a combined sewer overflow (CSO). This event may potentially affect waters in Boston Inner Harbor. For more information, visit https://t.co/2D7OOM5bk6 (1/3). pic.twitter.com/DCHDPRPwmK
— Boston Public Health (@HealthyBoston) October 14, 2022
A combined sewer overflow occurs when a large storm overwhelms the combined sewerage system causing rainwater to mix with wastewater and discharge to a nearby water body. This also prevents sewage backups in homes and businesses, according to officials.
For the next 48 hours, the public health commission is advising against swimming, rowing, or fishing in the area.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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