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2w ago

Ruptured Sewer Pipe Sends Raw Sewage Into Potomac as DC Water Races to Divert Flow

A failing 1960s-era interceptor under rehabilitation has forced a risky diversion plan ahead of a winter storm.

D.C. Water has established a command center where a massive pipe rupture is sending raw sewage into the Potomac River, in Glen Echo, Md., Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)
Potomac River Keeper Dean Naujoks, holds a biohazard collection bag while standing alongside the site where a massive pipe rupture has sent sewage spilling into the Potomac River, Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 in Glen Echo, Md. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)

Overview

  • DC Water estimates roughly 40 million gallons per day have overflowed since Monday’s collapse, though the amount entering the river remains unclear.
  • Crews are removing C&O Canal lock gates and installing pumps to channel wastewater into the canal and route it back into the system downstream.
  • The utility reports no impact to drinking water supplies, and it urges the public to avoid the area and wash any exposed skin.
  • Workers plan to operate through the weekend with a temporary bypass targeted for Monday, but the approaching storm could overwhelm the diversion.
  • The rupture occurred along Clara Barton Parkway in Montgomery County on the Potomac Interceptor, which has rehabilitation work underway through April.