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21h ago

Potomac Sewage Interceptor Returns to Service After Emergency Repairs

Focus now shifts to river restoration, oversight, monitoring.

Workers build a cofferdam to stop the flow of raw sewage into the Potomac River after a massive sewage pipe rupture in Glen Echo, Md., Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)
FILE - A warning sign is seen at the sight of a massive pipe rupture, as sewage flows into the Potomac River, right, in Glen Echo, Md., Jan. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, FiLe)
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Overview

  • Testing early Saturday verified the 72-inch line could safely resume service, and DC Water removed a bulkhead to return flow to the Potomac Interceptor.
  • DC Water reported full flow restored and said the C&O Canal was fully drained as crews complete site work after 33 straight days without an overflow.
  • EPA is leading the federal technical response with FEMA coordination and Army Corps support, and the utility will monitor the reopened line for 48 hours.
  • Cleanup priorities include clearing debris, removing affected soil, stabilizing banks, and flushing the historic canal with freshwater over the coming months.
  • Officials maintained that treated drinking water was not jeopardized, as a March 6 class-action lawsuit alleges negligence and DC Water plans public meetings next week in Bethesda and Alexandria.