Warning Signs Posted at Puhi Bay After Partially-Treated Wastewater Entered Ocean

Approximately 8,600 gallons of partially treated wastewater overflowed into waters around Puhi Bay after an electric breaker for the feed pump tripped at the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant, Thursday, Jan. 27.

According to a press release from the Department Environmental Management, Wastewater Division, the plant experienced a loss of power to the Trickling Filter feed pumps at approximately 4:25 p.m. As a result, the feed pump wet well overflowed into the channel that feeds the solids contact basin.

The outage lasted approximately four minutes.

At no time did the WWTP disinfection system stop feeding sodium hypochlorite, officials stated. Treated wastewater discharged into the outfall was processed through the solids contact chamber and secondary clarifiers prior to disinfection and disposal into the outfall, county officials stated.

The electrical breaker was reset and the faulty feed pump was replaced.

The public is advised to stay out of the waters at Puhi Bay. Warning signs will be posted.