Some residents affected after wastewater spill in Dripping Springs
Jan 03, 2025
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- After thousands of gallons of "untreated wastewater" spilled in the city of Dripping Springs, the city is now advising affected residents to boil their water before consumption, the city said in a public notice.
The city said it was notified the 83,200 gallons of wastewater spilled on Friday around 7 a.m. at the Hays Street Lift Station and took immediate action to contain it. The Hays Street Lift Station is located at the south end of Haydon Lane in Dripping Springs.
City of Dripping Springs map of affected area due to wastewater spill (Courtesy city of Dripping Springs)
"The spill was immediately stopped. The pump failed to operate normally. The pump is back in service and now is operating properly," the city said in the notice.
Here are some tips the city advised for residents to ensure they don't come in contact with affected water:
Residents who use private drinking water supply wells within a half mile of the overflow site should "only use water that has been distilled or boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute for all personal uses." This includes water that is used for drinking, cooking, bathing and when residents brush their teeth.
Those who purchase water from another public water supply may need to contact their water supply distributor "to determine if the water is safe for personal use."
Those in "potentially affected" areas should "avoid contact with waste material, soil, or water."
If anyone should come into contact with water material, soil or water that could have been affected by the spill, they "should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible."
"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your cooperation as we resolve this issue," the city said.