Charlotte Water estimates 16,250 gallons of wastewater spilled into McDowell Creek near 16505 Birkdale Commons Parkway in Huntersville on Monday.

The spill was the result of a manhole damaged by a contractor, according to Charlotte Water. Sewage from the overflow reached the creek, which is a tributary of the Catawba River.

The majority of wastewater spills are preventable, said Charlotte Water spokesperson Camden Coley.

“Anything put in plumbing or a manhole can cause wastewater overflows,” he said, “spilling raw sewage into your street, your creek or even inside your own home.”