Which of the following could potentially worsen soil saturation conditions in a septic system?

Heavy rainfall can significantly worsen soil saturation conditions in a septic system due to the increased volume of water that saturates the ground. When there is excessive rainfall, the soil can become oversaturated, leading to conditions where it cannot absorb additional water effectively. This saturation can impede the proper functioning of the septic system, as the system relies on the soil to filter and treat wastewater.

Moreover, compromised soil absorption rates can lead to surface runoff or backup in the system, increasing the risk of contaminating nearby water sources. Therefore, heavy rainfall directly impacts the ability of a septic system to function efficiently, highlighting its role as a critical factor in soil saturation conditions.