San Diego City Wire

San Diego County is addressing concerns related to increased hydrogen sulfide emissions detected in the Tijuana River Valley. The situation has led to a rise in odor issues affecting the South County region, primarily overnight. These hydrogen sulfide levels are being recorded by the Air Pollution Control District (APCD), which runs a network of H2S analyzers. The County collaborates with the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC), as well as state and federal agencies, to monitor the situation.

The rise in foul odors is linked to recent sewage infrastructure work in Mexico. As per IBWC reports, this has resulted in the nightly discharge of up to 5 million gallons of sewage into the Tijuana River Valley. This is in addition to unexplained sewage flows currently investigated by the IBWC and its Mexican counterparts.

County Public Health experts have provided guidance to the APCD regarding hydrogen sulfide. Affected residents are advised to curtail outdoor activities during periods of offensive odors, keep doors shut, and enhance air circulation using fans and air purifiers indoors. The APCD is offering free air purifiers in three mainly affected ZIP codes.

Residents with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other chronic lung conditions should ensure they have emergency medications accessible, like rescue inhalers. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms due to strong odors persist, become concerning, or worsen.

“‘Our friends, co-workers and families who live or work near the Tijuana River Valley deserve access to clean air and beaches,’” stated Dr. Ankita Kadakia, the county’s interim public health officer. “‘While the County continues to advocate to the federal government for a solution that stops the flow of untreated wastewater, we also want people to be aware of the steps they can take when confronted by offensive hydrogen sulfide odors.’”

San Diego County is calling on federal officials to collaborate with Mexico to halt the discharge of raw sewage. The aim is to reach a resolution for this persistent water and air pollution problem.

Further details on the ongoing sewage discharge into the Tijuana River Valley can be obtained from the APCD, IBWC, and the County.