Timmins reports sanitary sewer overflow at Whitney-Tisdale Pump Station #4

The City of Timmins reported a sanitary sewer overflow at Whitney-Tisdale Pump Station #4, at 5121 Highway 101 East, starting April 27 at 3:03 p.m.

The overflow notice includes advice that could affect local households during wet weather, including a request to reduce water use during rainstorms.

The city did not list an end date, end time, or the volume of wastewater bypassed as of its April 27 posting.

In its notice, the city said municipal wastewater is about 99% water, including water from stormwater and from household and business use such as washing and flushing.

The city said bypasses or overflows can happen when a treatment plant or treatment process is overwhelmed, and said heavy rainfall and snowmelt are often contributing factors. It said that during a bypass or overflow, partially treated wastewater can be diverted away from a treatment process to prevent backups, overflows, or damage to the system.

The city asked residents to conserve water during rainstorms by delaying or limiting laundry, long showers, and dishwasher use. The notice also asked residents not to flush wipes, which it said helps keep pipes clear.