Haverhill sewer break sends sewage into Merrimack River
PUBLISHED Jun 30, 2026, 9:14 AM ET
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A major sewer line failure in Haverhill, Massachusetts is discharging about 8 million gallons of untreated wastewater per day into the Merrimack River, prompting widespread beach and shellfish closures north of Boston. The break at a South Mill Street pump station occurred during heavy rains Friday night, according to Mayor Melinda Barrett. By the weekend, swimming was banned at beaches in Ipswich, Newburyport, and Salisbury, including Plum Island and Crane Beach, while several Gloucester shellfish areas were also closed. Governor Maura Healey said Monday that a whole-of-government response is underway as crews install a temporary pipeline to route sewage to Haverhill’s treatment plant.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Friday night Sewer line fails during heavy rains
- Saturday Officials confirm continued wastewater discharge
- Saturday State warns against Salisbury beach swimming
- Weekend Multiple Ipswich and Plum Island beaches closed
- Weekend Gloucester shellfish harvesting areas ordered closed
- Monday Governor announces whole-of-government emergency response
- Monday Crews work to install temporary bypass pipeline
News Intelligence
- This sewage break impacts your health and safety. Beaches and shellfish areas are closed, affecting weekend plans and local seafood supply. If you live in the affected areas, avoid swimming in the river and consuming local shellfish until further notice.
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