In accordance with the guidelines established by the Maryland Department of the Environment, the Charles County Department of Utilities and the Charles County Health Department report that an accidental sewage overflow of approximately 10,000 gallons of raw wastewater was discovered at 1:30 p.m. today at a manhole located approximately 1/4 mile south of Billingsley Road on southbound U.S. 301.
According to the Department of Utilities, the overflow was caused by foreign debris in an adjacent manhole; however, the source of the debris has not been determined. The spill was contained in the drainage ditch along southbound U.S. 301. No sewage is thought to have escaped into any tributaries or watersheds, according to the Department of Utilities. Signs will be posted warning residents to avoid contact with the area. Lime will be applied to the affected area when the ditch has been drained.
The affected area poses no threat to the environment, public health, or drinking water, said the Health Department of Charles County.
For more information, call the Department of Utilities at 301-609-7400, or the Health Department at 301-609-6751.