Tropical Storm Debby prompts city sewage spill

Due to heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby, which created localized street flooding and high flows in the sanitary collection system, a diluted mix of wastewater and stormwater flowed into the stormwater system in the Harbor Acres neighborhood yesterday, according to city officials.

Crews stopped the spill by using pumper trucks to divert the flow. Although the exact amount of the spill is unknown, it is estimated 20,000 gallons of untreated wastewater mixed with stormwater entered the stormwater system. Crews have disinfected the impacted area.

Over 4.3 inches of rain have been recorded in Sarasota in the past 30 hours. With such heavy rainfall, city officials say spills of this nature are not uncommon in sanitary systems in Southwest Florida. Crews will continue to monitor the Harbor Acres neighborhood and other low-lying areas as Tropical Storm Debby continues to drop significant rainfall on the area.

Water samples are being taken along Sarasota Bay near the discharge locations.

The city of Sarasota Utilities Department notified the appropriate health and regulatory agencies.
Residents are cautioned to avoid direct contact with street flooding during any rain event due to the possibility of cross contamination between wastewater and stormwater.

For more information contact Utilities Director Bill Hallisey at 365-2200, ext. 6210.