Citizens urged to avoid Pocomoke River near Snow Hill due to combined sanitary overflow

Due to the recent heavy rainfall, the Town of Snow Hill reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment and Worcester County Environmental Programs that they have a combined sewer overflow event of over 10,000 gallons from their treatment plant.

A combined sanitary overflow is defined as an overflow event from a combined sewer system that also collects rainwater.

Town officials say that with the high volume stream flow, rapid dilution of the sewage is expected.

Worcester County Environmental Programs is monitoring the situation and will sample the river when floodwaters recede enough that collection activities can be safely conducted.

Environmental Programs is telling public that contact with the river should be avoided due to potential contaminants. So, everyone should avoid fishing, swimming, wading or other contact with the waterways until this rain event has ended and this advisory lifted.

Officials note that if you come into contact with the river, you should wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. If the contacted area has any open wounds or sores,seek advice from your healthcare provider.