New estimates have concluded that more than 100,000 gallons of wastewater overflowed into a tributary of Walnut Creek in a remote area located approximately ¾ of a mile southeast of Ed Bluestein Blvd and FM 969 in Austin.
A wastewater overflow was discovered at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Friday, July 27, caused by a malfunctioning lift station. Crews were able to repair the malfunction and stop the overflow.
Austin’s water supply was not affected and is safe. Initial assessments and subsequent monitoring verified that public health and safety and the environment were not affected either.
Austin Water is continuing to work with the City of Austin Watershed Protection Department to monitor the tributary. Officials with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality have been notified.
Austin Water officials urge:
- Persons using private drinking water supply wells located within 1/2-mile of the overflow site or within the potentially affected area should use only 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. Individuals with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, prior to discontinuing distillation or boiling.
- Persons who purchase water from another public water supply may contact their water supply distributor to determine if the water is safe for personal use.
- The public should avoid contact with waste material, soil, or water in the area potentially affected by the overflow.
- If the public comes into contact with waste material, soil, or water potentially affected by the spill, they should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible.
(Credit: Austin Water/ Twitter)
