State recreational water quality officials have issued a precautionary advisory for the Southport waterfront in Brunswick County, warning the public against swimming in the Cape Fear River. The advisory is due to potential health risks following a discharge of untreated wastewater caused by excess rain and king tide flooding, which overwhelmed the Bay Street wastewater pump station.
Brunswick County Public Utilities investigated the incident. In collaboration with county authorities, they used pump trucks to manage and monitor the situation until floodwaters receded and normal operating conditions were restored at the Bay Street pump station. It was estimated that approximately 17,000 gallons of untreated sewage were lost from the collection system during this event.
The presence of wastewater discharges increases the likelihood of contamination in both the Cape Fear River and nearby creeks along Southport’s waterfront. State officials have warned that adverse health effects such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and skin infections could occur if individuals swim in these waters. Consequently, it is advised that people avoid bodily contact with these areas.
Officials are actively monitoring the situation and will remove the advisory once bacteriological test results meet state and federal standards.
For more information about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view a map of testing sites, individuals are encouraged to visit the program’s website or follow its social media account.
