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Sewage flowing into Patapsco due to recent flooding

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The Howard County Health Department is warning residents about a major sewage overflow into the Patapsco caused by recent flooding.

An estimated 5 million gallons per day of sewage has been flowing into a portion of the Sucker Branch Tributary to the Patapsco River since July 30, authorities say.

Steep terrain is hindering repairs. Crews are working to stop the flow, but the public is asked to avoid contact with the area downstream of Sylvan Lane in Ellicott City.

Anne Arundel County officials closed a section of the Patapsco River to swimming due to the overflow.

The closed area is from the Howard County line to the Baltimore City line along River Road, the Patapsco Valley State Park, and Belle Grove Road. The emergency closing is due to a large-volume sewage overflow in Howard County at the Sylvan Lane, Sucker Branch Tributary at the Patapsco River.

The Anne Arundel County Health Department advises people who come in contact with the water to wash with soap and warm water immediately.