Heavy rainfall in the area has resulted in sewage discharges, also known as combined sewer overflows, prompting public health officials to warn residents of potential health risks from bacteria or pollutants. Public health departments are required to alert the public when these discharges occur, especially if they last for more than two hours.
Several sewage discharges were reported in various locations, including the Fort Point Channel, the Charles River Basin, and the Inner Harbor. The Boston Public Health Commission issued a public health warning advising residents to avoid contact with affected bodies of water for at least 48 hours to reduce health risks.
Combined sewer overflows happen when a large storm overwhelms the sewerage system, causing rainwater to mix with wastewater and discharge into nearby water bodies to prevent sewage backups. The commission emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with affected water bodies to minimize health risks associated with bacteria and pollutants from urban stormwater runoff and untreated wastewater discharges.
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