A leak in the Figtree force main sewer line that runs along the Hess Road has forced the evacuation of the surrounding area and posed environmental hazard for area residents and boaters for the next several days, the V.I. Waste Management Authority reported.

The authority’s Task Force Contractor, GEC LLC, was evaluating the situation and excavating the area Friday afternoon to determine the extent of the problem.

In order to repair the force main line, the station was taken off-line Friday morning. During the shutdown, sewage is being bypassed into the Figtree Gut, which discharges to the sea east of Hovensa.

Residents and boaters are asked to avoid the Figtree Gut and the Hovensa beach area over the next several days until repairs are completed and the system is back online.

Traffic in the area of Hovensa along Hess Road has been minimally impacted, VITEMA said in its news release. Motorists are asked to reduce speed when entering the area and to follow the directions of the flagmen.

The VIWMA advises all residents with impacted immune systems to avoid the area along the Hess Road and the beach during this time as the sewage may contain contaminants that can harm an individual’s health.