The Howard County Health Department has issued a precautionary health alert after severe storms Saturday caused sewage overflow to a portion of the Phelps Luck neighborhood in Columbia.
According to the health department, a broken pipe in the area led to sewage overflow near a small stream. The Department of Public Works and Bureau of Utilities heard about the overflow on Sunday night, and the pipe was fixed about 11:15 a.m. on Monday.
A temporary pump was set up while the pipe was being fixed.
Given the accelerated stream flow from the severe storm, the health department said, dilution of the sewage discharge is expected.
While nearby homeowners and neighbors in the area have been notified and warning signs have been posted, the public is asked to stay away from the site of the overflow and keep family pets away from the area.
The health department said staff will monitor weather forecasts and be ready to react should more storms occur.
For information regarding the overflow, call the Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900.