Sewer Line Break Spills Waste In Shady Side

Editor's Note: County officials initially said in a news release that wastewater went into Chesapeake Bay, but said later Monday that it was stopped before reaching the water.

SHADY SIDE, MD — About 15,300 gallons of wastewater was spilled in Shady Side when a sewer mian broke from external corrosion Sunday night, Anne Arundel County official say. Repairs have been made, although cleanup may continue Monday.

Department of Public Works Bureau of Utility Crews repaired a 12-inch sewer force main last night along Columbia Beach Road in Shady Side. Crews were called to the force main break around 7 p.m.

Signs alerting the public of the overflow have been posted, and it has been reported to the County Department of Health and the Maryland Department of the Environment. County Health officials warn people coming in contact with the affected ground to immediately wash well with soap and warm water. Clothing should also be washed.

The force main break occurred about 900 feet from the bay. The affected area was limed and vacuumed. Any necessary clean up activities will continue on Monday.

The wastewater released in the main break did not reach waters of the Chesapeake Bay, but was contained before any wastewater reached the bay, county officials said Monday.

(Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)