Overview
- DC Health said E. coli levels in the District’s stretch of the Potomac have stayed within the EPA’s recreational standard of 410 MPN/100 mL for three weeks, prompting the clearance.
- The advisory lift allows activities such as boating and fishing in D.C.; swimming without a permit remains prohibited, and residents are urged to follow neighboring jurisdictions’ guidance outside District waters.
- The contamination began Jan. 19 when the 72‑inch Potomac Interceptor collapsed in Maryland, releasing more than 240 million gallons of untreated sewage; officials reported that drinking water was not affected.
- DC Water expects to restore flow by mid‑March after work slowed by a rock obstruction discovered near the break, with environmental restoration planned along the canal and Potomac shoreline afterward.
- Multiple agencies, including EPA and FEMA, have supported monitoring and response; Mayor Muriel Bowser sought and received a federal emergency declaration, and DC Water’s CEO told the D.C. Council the pipe did not appear at imminent risk during an October 2024 inspection.