More than 16,000 gallons of sewage overflowed into Cypress Creek in Severna Park last Sunday evening, prompting an emergency closure of a portion of the creek from the headwaters of its southern branch to Dill Road and Oak Grove Circle.

The spill, caused by a force main, or pressurized sewer pipe, break in the 800 block of Ritchie Highway, was reported to the Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works Emergency Services at 5 p.m. The overflow was contained at 9:30 p.m., according to the department.

Public works officials said 16,200 gallons of sewage spilled into Cypress Creek. What caused the force main break is unclear, the department said in a news release.

The affected area was limed and vacuumed, the department said. The spill was reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Anne Arundel County Department of Health.

The affected waters are closed for seven days. Bathing beaches and recreational waters are also closed for swimming, waterskiing and other direct water contact.

The health department will continue to evaluate water quality in the area.

Closure signs have been posted around the area. People coming in contact with the affected water are advised to immediately wash well with soap and warm water. Clothing should also be washed, the health department said in a news release.