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Story perspectives

250 Million Gallons of Sewage Pollute Potomac River

3/15/2026

49 5 Full Breakdown

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Story summary
  • The Potomac Interceptor, operated by DC Water (the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority), collapsed on January 19, releasing about 250 million gallons of raw sewage into the Potomac River.
  • DC Water completed emergency repairs on March 14, restoring wastewater flow.
  • Cleanup will take months.
  • Health officials in Montgomery County, Maryland, advise against contact with river.
  • Long-term repairs to the sewer system may last up to nine months.