From Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District press release

The Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District reported a wastewater spill Friday of an estimated 18,000 gallons from the wastewater collection system located at the intersection of Laurel Avenue and 4th St.

Untreated wastewater diluted by heavy rains spilled into the waters of the state tributary to the Roanoke River in the Roanoke River Basin when inflow into the sewer system from rainwater runoff exceeded the pumping capacity of the equipment. The spill began at 8 p.m. on Thursday and ended at 6 a.m. on Friday.

Preparation is being made for all known repairs necessary to reduce the source of inflow to return the pipe system to service and minimize further discharge.