Southwest Cutoff Sanitary Sewer Overflow

WORCESTER, Mass. - On Friday July 24, 2026, at 5:20 a.m. the city experienced a sanitary sewer overflow in the vicinity of 23 Southwest Cutoff (Route 20).

Approximately 15,000 gallons of untreated wastewater was discharged to the street from an underground pipe. City crews immediately responded and stopped the leak at 7:23 a.m. The sewer system is operating normally.

Some of the flow made its way into the storm sewer system which ultimately drains to Lake Quinsigamond through O'Hara Brook, near Whitla Drive and Ideal Road. The public is advised of the possibility of elevated E. Coli levels at the point and around the area of the discharge. Testing will be done daily until levels return to an acceptable range. Fishing and swimming in this section of the lake is restricted until then. Individuals are advised to use the lake with caution until tested levels that support recreational use are attained and announced.

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