A health warning advisory has been issued for parts of Massachusetts, urging residents to steer clear of Alewife Brook in Cambridge and adjacent areas due to potential exposure to harmful bacteria and pollutants. In a move to prevent sewage backup into homes and city streets, a "combined sewer overflow" (CSO) was initiated, causing a mix of stormwater and sewage to discharge into the brook.
The overflow, which started early Monday at 2:41 a.m. and concluded at 5:36 a.m., poses health risks, which have led authorities to recommend avoiding contact with the water through December 13, 2023. Despite the early hours when the discharge took place, the impacted regions, including Arlington, Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford, were alerted of the risks due to state regulations necessitating such notifications after prolonged discharges.
Engaging in water-related activities such as paddle boarding, boating, and fishing in the affected areas is now considered dangerous. According to a notice posted by the Cambridge Department of Public Works, the public is advised to maintain a safe distance from the brook and Mystic River for 48 hours after the overflow ends to minimize exposure to contaminants.
Efforts to enhance the sewer systems in Cambridge have been ongoing, resulting in fewer CSO events over time. However, as the recent incident suggests, heavy rain can still trigger these discharges. Translations for public advisories are available, keeping non-English-speaking residents informed and reflecting Cambridge's commitment to community health.
This statewide notification system was championed by environmental groups and was set in motion last year. In a bid to protect public health and keep residents apprised of sewage releases into waterways, Massachusetts enacted a law making these alerts mandatory. For any concerns about potential health risks from tainted water, contact Sam Lipson at the Cambridge Public Health Department.
