City of Plymouth issues Combined Sewer Overflow Warning following heavy rainfall

The City of Plymouth is warning residents to avoid contact with the Yellow River following a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) caused by heavy rainfall over the past several days. More than five inches of rain have fallen in the area, causing river levels to rise and the city's sewer system and wastewater treatment facility to exceed capacity.

The city issued the warning Monday morning, July 6th, at 9:30 a.m., noting that overflow conditions could continue for the next 72 hours.

Signage has been posted along local waterways to identify the 10 combined sewer overflow points where contact with the water could be hazardous to your health. Areas of specific concern include the Yellow River downstream of the following locations: Oakhill Avenue, Klinger Street, Elliot Street, Magnetic/Bird Park Area, Cleveland Street, and Sixth Street.

The City of Plymouth is urging residents to take precautions.

• Avoid all contact with the Yellow River and urban streams, especially during and for three days following rain events.
• Alter recreational activities near urban streams to ones that do not involve water contact.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with water in urban streams, especially before eating.
• Use waterless hand sanitizer when spending time near urban streams.

The city also notes that even during dry weather, pollutants from other sources — including wildlife, upstream users, and groundwater discharges — can be present in the Yellow River.

Residents are encouraged to stay alert to updates from the City of Plymouth as conditions continue to be monitored.