(ANGOLA) – The heavy rains that are moving through the area could be causing problems in the City of Angola.

Jeffrey Gaff, Superintendent of the Angola Wastewater Treatment Plant says due to the heavy rainfall, it is possible that a combined sewer overflow could occur.

Gaff says the Wastewater Treatment Plant maintains a sanitary sewer system that is combined with storm sewers. During long periods of constant precipitation, the sanitary sewage collection system may surcharge and a combined sewer overflow may occur.

Gaff says sewage or wastewater pollution may be present in waters downstream of the wastewater treatment plant during or for several says after periods of heavy rainfall. People who swim in, wade in or ingest this water may get sick. Gaff says special precautions should be taken to prevent accidental or intentional ingestion of water.

Bacteria levels will usually return to normal levels within 72 hours after a sewer overflow, at which time normal recreational activities may resume.