Around 6.5 million gallons of wastewater pours into Hillsborough River due to storm surge

TAMPA – Approximately 6.5 million gallons of wastewater have spilled into the Hillsborough River, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced Friday.

The overflow happened due to damage at the Krause Pump Station caused by a storm surge from Hurricane Helene. It began around 2 a.m. and ended around 12:20 p.m.

Signs have been posted at the river and samples are currently being collected.

Two wastewater pumping stations underwent repairs due to flooding caused by Helene.

The Krauss Pumping Station at 163 S Ashley Street was repaired Friday afternoon. The Bayshore Pumping Station at the corner of South Bayshore Boulevard and West Knights Avenue was also believed to have been damaged but was found operational once repair crews arrived.

Several other stations continue to be repaired. The city asks residents to reduce water usage where possible to reduce impact on the stations while repairs are being made.

The city said there is no risk to consumers and the water from faucets and showers is safe to drink.

The Krauss Pumping Station at 163 S Ashley Street was repaired Friday afternoon. The Bayshore Pumping Station at the corner of South Bayshore Boulevard and West Knights Avenue was also believed to have been damaged but was found operational once repair crews arrived.