Toilet Paper Shortage Causing Sewer System Indigestion: CVWD

COACHELLA VALLEY, CA — With toilet paper in short supply across the Coachella Valley, paper products that clog pipes and damage pumps are turning up in the sewer system, so water district officials are calling on residents to stop flushing the non-flushable.

“Our hearts are with everyone being affected by COVID-19 at this time,” said Katie Evans, Coachella Valley Water District director of communications and conservation. “Our employees continue to work to ensure safe and reliable water services but we need our customer’s help to protect the sewer system.”

A high-volume of paper towels and so-called flushable wipes are being found in the system, but they should be placed in the trash instead, according to the CVWD.

“Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet,” Evans said.

Additional information about water issues and COVID-19 is available at www.cvwd.org/covid-19