Sewage overflows
When we experience very heavy rain and wet weather/flood events, a large volume of stormwater often gets into the sewerage system.
At times like this, sewage can sometimes discharge through manholes and other overflow points. In this situation, Unitywater will:
- assign work crews to contain spills, clean and disinfect affected areas;
- erect signage to notify residents of sewage spill;
- divert sewage flows into less inundated parts of the system;
- get tankers to pump sewage directly from the system to relieve the pressure on particular pump stations; and
- conduct water-quality testing to ensure that waterways are not polluted with unacceptable bacteria levels.
In some instances, to protect public health, beaches and waterways may be closed.
We strongly advise all residents and visitors to stay out of waterways during and after a storm, as the water may contain snags, sharp objects, raw sewage, chemical waste, fallen powerlines and wildlife.
If you notice a sewage overflow, please contact us immediately.