PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – At least 120 gallons of sewage made its way into Stephens Creek due to an overflow from a nearby apartment complex on Thursday.
The cause of the overflow is still unknown, but officials say the sewage had made its way from the building at 7900 SW 19th Avenue, down the driveway and into a storm drain that connects to the creek.
“The most common causes of sewage overflows are pipes clogged with household debris such as cooking grease that are sent down kitchen drains or wet wipes that are flushed,” the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services said. “Both belong in the trash, not down the drain. Tree roots are another common cause.”
The agency advises people to avoid the intersection of Southwest 19th Avenue and Evans Street, or at least stay on the sidewalk.
The creek should also be avoided downstream of Barbur Boulevard and the I-5 bridges through Sunday, Feb. 25 “because of the possibility of increased bacteria in the water,” the agency added.
Officials say to keep pets away from these areas as well.
