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243 Million Gallons of Wastewater Spill Hits Potomac

2/20/2026

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Story summary
  • DC Water released over 243 million gallons of wastewater into the Potomac River after a collapsed sewer line, one of the largest U.S. wastewater disasters.
  • The spill prompted health alerts due to high E. coli levels in the river.
  • The Environmental Protection Agency criticized DC Water for not seeking federal assistance.
  • DC Water, led by David Gadis as Chief Executive Officer, has prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion.