Sanitary Sewer Overflow

A Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) occurs when untreated or partially treated wastewater escapes from a sewer system and flows into the environment, such as rivers, streets, or neighborhoods. This can happen due to blockages, damage, or heavy rainfall overwhelming the system. SSOs can pose health risks and environmental problems because they may contain bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. Authorities monitor and manage these incidents to minimize impact, but SSOs highlight the importance of maintaining and upgrading sewer infrastructure to prevent pollution and protect public health.