Tropical Storm Helene impacting sewer service in Oconee County

SENECA, S.C. – The Oconee Joint Regional Sewer Authority (OJRSA) is experiencing one known overflow near Wells Highway east of Seneca near Martin Creek due to impacts caused by Tropical Storm Helene; however, there are possibly others that the agency is not aware of at this time. The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (formerly SC Department of Health and Environmental Control) has been notified of the situation and will continue to be updated throughout the duration of the event.
The volume of wastewater spilled has not been determined.

The surge of storm and floodwaters associated with the storm has also impacted the ability to store and treat wastewater at Coneross Creek Water Reclamation Facility as the site as utilized all of its emergency storage and treatment capabilities, and as such, the OJRSA has to reduce operations in order to protect the equipment and integrity of the dike containing the six-million-gallon emergency wastewater onsite storage basin.

The treatment plant continues to operate normally, and process wastewater delivered by other pump stations in the system.

If customers observe an overflow, they should avoid the area and notify the OJRSA by calling 864-972-3900 or emailing [email protected] and include the location of where the overflow is occurring.

A full assessment of the system will be performed when the floodwaters subside, and it is safe to do so.

People and pets should avoid all floodwaters and waterbodies in the area due to potential wastewater contamination or other hazards until the notice is rescinded.