E. Coli Warning Issued After 15K-Gallon Sewer Overflow In Worcester

An overflow discharged about 15,000 gallons of untreated wastewater from an underground pipe into the street.

By Jessie Castellano, Patch Staff

Jul 24, 2026 3:07 PM EDT

WORCESTER, MA — A sanitary sewer overflow near Route 20 sent untreated wastewater into the street Friday morning, city officials said.

The overflow happened at about 5:20 a.m. Friday near 23 Southwest Cutoff, discharging about 15,000 gallons of untreated wastewater from an underground pipe, according to the city. Crews responded immediately and stopped the leak at 7:23 a.m.

The sewer system is operating normally, the city said.

Some of the wastewater entered the storm sewer system, which drains to Lake Quinsigamond through O'Hara Brook near Whitla Drive and Ideal Road, according to the city.

The public is being advised of the possibility of elevated E. coli levels at the discharge point and nearby area. Testing will be done daily until levels return to an acceptable range, the city said.

Fishing and swimming in that section of Lake Quinsigamond are restricted until then. The city advised people to use the lake with caution until test results show levels that support recreational use.