UPDATE: Urgent efforts are underway as DC Water teams tackle a significant sewer overflow caused by a collapsed sewer line along the Clara Barton Parkway and C & O National Historical Park. This critical incident, first reported on January 19, 2026, has escalated into a public health concern as crews work around the clock to manage the situation.
The collapse of a 72-inch diameter section of the Potomac Interceptor has led to an overflow that threatens local waterways. Industrial pumps have been operational since late Saturday, but extreme winter weather, including heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, has severely hampered their effectiveness. The pumps must undergo frequent maintenance due to blockages caused by fats, oils, grease, and other debris, which has temporarily reduced system capacity.
DC Water is deploying additional pumps to enhance the bypass system’s capacity, aiming to alleviate the overflow and mitigate environmental impacts. Monitoring indicates that flow rates have surged by approximately 40 million gallons per day since the system was redirected into the sewer. This progress is crucial as crews strive for full containment of the overflow.
Residents in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Montgomery counties are urged to avoid flushing wipes or disposing of grease down drains to assist ongoing emergency operations. Authorities assure that there is no impact on the drinking water supply, as the Washington Aqueduct intakes are situated upstream from the overflow.
DC Water has partnered with multiple agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Park Service, to monitor the situation closely. Together, they are coordinating efforts to contain the overflow and assess environmental impacts. The agency has allocated $625 million for future projects aimed at rehabilitating the Potomac Interceptor over the next decade.
As the situation develops, residents are reminded to heed warning signs and avoid contaminated areas. Those who come into contact with wastewater should wash exposed skin immediately and seek medical attention if they experience any illness.
DC Water remains committed to updating the public as new information arises. For immediate inquiries, residents can contact the Customer Care team at 354-3600 or the 24-Hour Command Center at 612-3400.
This situation is evolving rapidly, and the community’s health and safety remain a top priority. Stay tuned for further updates as DC Water continues to address this urgent issue.
