Summary
A large sewer pipe broke, causing millions of gallons of raw sewage to flow into the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. Crews are working to manage the spill and repair the pipe, while officials warn the public to avoid the affected area due to health risks. The spill does not impact drinking water, but a winter storm could make cleanup more challenging.
Key Facts
- A 72-inch sewer pipe ruptured, causing raw sewage to spill into the Potomac River.
- The burst pipe is part of a system that can handle 60 million gallons of wastewater per day.
- DC Water is installing pumps to reroute sewage and repair the damaged pipe.
- Authorities posted warnings about the health risks and advised people to avoid the area.
- Environmental groups are testing water samples for harmful bacteria like E. coli.
- The pipeline called the Potomac Interceptor was installed in the 1960s and was undergoing rehabilitation work.
- Officials say the spill doesn't affect the drinking water, which is from a separate system.
- A winter storm with freezing temperatures could complicate efforts to manage the spill.
