Florence, SC, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The city of Florence has issued a warning to residents about wastewater overflows into Jeffries Creek after heavy rainfall resulted in the discharge of approximately 5,000 gallons of sewage. City staff are addressing the issue with water quality testing and cleanup efforts. Residents are advised to avoid contact with the creek to ensure public health and safety.
Florence, SC – The city of Florence has issued a notice warning residents about wastewater overflows into Jeffries Creek following heavy rainfall that struck the area over the weekend. The overflow incidents were reported at two manholes, one located near 3300 W. Palmetto St. and the other near 528 Woody Jones Blvd. Both sites are near popular recreational trails, raising concerns about public health and safety.
City staff responded quickly to the situation on Monday, addressing the wastewater overflow attributed to significant rainfall coupled with stormwater inflow and infiltration into the sewer system. Approximately 5,000 gallons of sewage were discharged from the affected manholes during this incident, prompting immediate action from city officials.
In response to the overflow, city crews plan to implement several mitigation efforts, including:
- Conducting water quality testing
- Cleaning the affected areas using vacuum trucks
- Disinfecting impacted zones to minimize health risks
Authorities have strongly advised residents to avoid contact with Jeffrey Creek downstream from the overflow locations. Activities such as swimming, fishing, and other recreational water activities are discouraged until further notice. Additionally, residents are urged to keep pets away from these affected areas to ensure their safety.
Sanitary sewer overflows have become a recurrent issue for the city of Florence, primarily exacerbated by heavy rainfall, elevated capacity levels, and blockages within the sewer system. The city has acknowledged these challenges and is actively working to mitigate them through its Sewer Collection System Master Plan.
The Master Plan outlines various initiatives aimed at addressing the sewer overflow issue. Notably, it includes plans to upgrade essential sections of the existing sewer system and enhance capacity in critical areas. Future efforts may involve relocating significant sewer lines in order to further reduce the risk of similar overflows along Jeffries Creek.
This current situation underlines the ongoing problems encountered in Florence’s sewer infrastructure, placing a spotlight on the importance of sustainable management and necessary upgrades to protect public health and local water resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the wastewater overflow in Florence?
The wastewater overflow was attributed to excessive rainfall and stormwater inflow and infiltration into the sewer system, resulting in approximately 5,000 gallons of sewage being discharged.
What areas are affected by the overflow?
The overflow has impacted areas near two manholes located at 3300 W. Palmetto St. and 528 Woody Jones Blvd., adjacent to recreational trails along Jeffries Creek.
What should residents do during this overflow situation?
Residents are advised to avoid contact with Jeffries Creek, especially downstream of the overflow locations. Activities such as swimming and fishing are discouraged, and pets should be kept away from the affected areas.
How is the city addressing the sewer overflow issue?
The city is prioritizing the sewer overflow issue through its Sewer Collection System Master Plan, which includes upgrading sewer system sections and increasing capacity in critical areas.
Key Features of Wastewater Overflow Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jeffries Creek near 3300 W. Palmetto St. and 528 Woody Jones Blvd. |
| Rainfall Impact | Heavy rainfall led to excessive stormwater inflow. |
| Estimated Sewage Discharged | Approximately 5,000 gallons. |
| Mitigation Efforts | Water quality testing, cleanup, and disinfection. |
| Public Safety Advisory | Avoid contact with the affected areas. |
| Long-Term Solution | Improvements outlined in the Sewer Collection System Master Plan. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Wastewater Overflow Incident in Florence
Sewage Overflow Issue in Jeffries Creek Prompts Advisory
Smoke Testing to Begin in Florence Neighborhoods
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Florence Officials Warn About Sewer Overflows
- WPDE: City of Florence Sewage Overflows After Flooding
- WBTW: Florence Officials Clean Up After Sewage Overflows
- Wikipedia: Sewage
- SC Now: Florence Sewage Cleanup Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wastewater
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
