Sanitary Sewer Overflows in Dallas: What You Need to Know
Introduction to the Issue
(May 1, 2025) Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) reports that recent heavy rainfall caused sanitary sewer overflows at several locations throughout the city. Three major drainage basins were affected, and more information can be found here. The overflows were primarily caused by inflow and infiltration (I&I) of stormwater into the City of Dallas wastewater collection system.
Cause and Effect of the Overflows
“The overflows were primarily caused by inflow and infiltration (I&I) of stormwater into the City of Dallas wastewater collection system,” said DWU Deputy Director Zachary Peoples. “None of the overflows of diluted wastewater have affected the city’s water supply.” Please click here for a list of individual overflow locations within the affected drainage basins. DWU crews are monitoring and performing cleanup efforts at each overflow location.
Protocols for Sanitary Sewer Overflows
DWU staff has initiated standard operating protocols for sanitary sewer overflows that involve waterways within the city limits. Staff has been monitoring the conditions of and sampling the water quality in Five Mile Creek. Sampling includes field and lab tests for parameters such as pH levels, dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, ammonia, phosphorous, nitrates, turbidity, and E. coli.
Regulatory Compliance and Water Safety
DWU is complying with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulatory requirements related to sanitary sewer overflows. DWU customers should not be concerned when using water, as at no time was the city’s water system affected by these sewer overflows.
Precautions for the Public
Although there is no danger to the water supply, the public is reminded to avoid contact with waste material, soil or water in any of the affected areas. If the public encounters waste material, soil or water potentially affected by the spills, they should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly.
Guidelines for Private Water Wells
Persons using private drinking water supply wells located within a half-mile of the spill sites or within the potentially impacted areas should only use water that has been distilled or boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute for all personal uses including drinking, cooking, bathing and tooth brushing.
Testing and Disinfecting Private Water Wells
Individuals with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, before discontinuing distillation or boiling. Persons who purchase water from a public water supply may contact their water supply distributor to determine if the water is safe for personal use.
Important Documents and Reports
TCEQ Form for DWU Public Notification – May 1, 2025
DWU Wet Weather SSO Report – April 30, 2025
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent heavy rainfall in Dallas caused sanitary sewer overflows at several locations throughout the city. While the overflows did not affect the city’s water supply, the public is advised to take precautions to avoid contact with waste material, soil or water in the affected areas. DWU is complying with regulatory requirements and monitoring the situation to ensure public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What caused the sanitary sewer overflows in Dallas?
A: The overflows were primarily caused by inflow and infiltration (I&I) of stormwater into the City of Dallas wastewater collection system.
Q: Is the city’s water supply affected by the overflows?
A: No, the city’s water supply was not affected by the sewer overflows.
Q: What precautions should the public take to avoid exposure to waste material or contaminated water?
A: The public should avoid contact with waste material, soil or water in any of the affected areas. If exposed, they should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly.
Q: What should individuals with private water wells do to ensure their water is safe to use?
A: Individuals with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, before discontinuing distillation or boiling.
