Heavy rainfall causes sewer overflow in Pocomoke River

SNOW HILL, Md. – Due to prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, the Town of Snow Hill has reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment and Worcester County Environmental Programs that there has been a combined sewer overflow (CSO) from the Snow Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant of more than 500,000 gallons.

We’re told this is an overflow event from a combined sewer system that also collects stormwater.

As a precaution, WCEP is advising that public contact with the Pocomoke River waters in the Snow Hill area should be avoided for the next seven days.

“We are advising the public to avoid contact with the river due to potential contaminants. Fishing, swimming, wading, or other contact with the waterways should not be conducted until this rain event has concluded and this advisory is lifted. Those who do come into contact with the river should wash the area of skin thoroughly with soap and water. If the contacted area has any open wounds or sores, seek immediate advice from a healthcare provider”, WCEP Director Bob Mitchell said.