Over 348,000 gallons of wastewater spill into creek near Northlake Mall

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A wastewater pipe near Northlake Mall has broken and caused a significant overflow into Dixon Branch, Charlotte Water officials confirmed.

According to the latest update on Thursday afternoon, erosion along the creek bank caused the pipe to fall into the creek.

Charlotte Water said crews are at the scene working to replace the broken pipe and rebuild the creek bank to prevent further damage.

So far, an estimated 348,333 gallons of untreated wastewater have spilled into Dixon Branch.

“A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help,” Cam Coley, spokesperson at Charlotte Water, said in a written statement. “Anything put in plumbing or a manhole can cause wastewater overflows, spilling raw sewage into your street, your creek, or even inside your own home. Even products labeled as ‘flushable’ do not break down in the sewer system and can contribute to clogging.”

How you can help

• Only flush toilet paper down the toilet
• Throw away paper towels, wipes, hair, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, coffee grounds, and leftover food in the trash
• Avoid pouring fats, oils, or grease down the kitchen sink
• Soap suds, small food scraps, and liquids are okay for the kitchen sink in small amounts