RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - Several North Carolina municipalities are having trouble managing wastewater treatment plants due to power outages and heavy rains from Hurricane Irene.
The state Department of Environment and Natural Resources said late Saturday at least a half-dozen towns or cities are reporting problems with their water or sewer systems.
Carolina Beach officials reported a wastewater spill of at least 1,000 gallons discharged due to rain and flooding. Tyrrell County Emergency Management Director Wesley Hopkins said the generator to keep the plant in Columbia operating isn't working. He said town leaders are waiting for a new generator from the state.
The state agency said other problems have been reported in Fremont, Rocky Mount, Stantonsburg and Williamston, where some wastewater is bypassing the local plant and heading directly into the Roanoke River.
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