On Jan. 24 and 25, the City of Victoria experienced heavy rainfall that caused stormwater to overflow from the City’s wastewater collection system; however, the City’s water supply was not affected because the wastewater collection system is not connected to the water distribution system.
The City’s water supply remains safe for consumption, and residents whose water is supplied by the City do not need to take any action. However, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires the City to provide information to residents about the overflow from wastewater pipes caused by the heavy rains.
Approximately 403,743 gallons of domestic wastewater, primarily consisting of stormwater from the rainfall, spilled from manholes on Anthony Road and Spokane Street between 8:30 a.m. Jan. 24 and 3:25 p.m. Jan. 25. City of Victoria crews disinfected the areas immediately following the overflow.
In addition, the City is required to share the following precautionary statements:
- Persons using private drinking water supply wells (not applicable to residents using the City’s water system) located within ½ mile of the spill site or within the potentially affected area should use only water that has been distilled or boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute for all personal uses including drinking, cooking, bathing, and tooth brushing. Individuals with private water wells (not applicable to residents using the City’s water system) should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, prior to discontinuing distillation or boiling.
- Persons who purchase water from a public water supply may contact their water supply distributor to determine if the water is safe for personal use. (NOTE: The City’s water supply is safe for consumption.)
- The public should avoid contact with waste material, soil, or water in the area potentially affected by the spill. (NOTE: The City already sent crews to clean the areas after the discharge.)
- If the public comes into contact with waste material, soil, or water potentially affected by the spill, they should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible.
The City is conducting an inflow and infiltration study to identify areas that are vulnerable to stormwater overflows due to cracks or openings in the sanitary sewer system. The results of the study will be used to prioritize repairs to the system. The results will be presented during the quarterly City Council workshop meeting March 1.
For further information, please contact the Public Works Office at 361-485-3381.