100,000 gallons of wastewater spills from failed pipe at busy Bluffton intersection
An estimated 100,000 gallons of wastewater was released from a failed force main near the intersection of Burnt Church Road and Ann Smith Drive in Bluffton on Saturday, according to the Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority.
The overflow began at 11 a.m. and was stopped by BJWSA crews around 2:30 p.m. Crews remained on the scene into Saturday evening cleaning up and repairing the 16-inch collection main, which was expected to be returned to service.
The wastewater did not reach any local waterways, BJWSA said. Signs were posted in the area to inform the public.
Wastewater is used water. It includes substances such as human waste, food scraps, oils, soaps and chemicals, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. In homes, this includes water from sinks, showers, bathtubs, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers. Businesses and industries also contribute used water that must be cleaned.
BJWSA has notified the S.C. Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) and is working in conjunction with SCDES to access and address any effects caused by the overflow.
BJWSA delivers an average of 10 million gallons of wastewater daily to eight facilities for treatment and disposal in the region.
