In preparation for severe weekend weather and potential impacts from Hurricane Joaquin, DC Water is ramping up staffing and taking other actions to protect its customers, facilities and personnel. DC Water is closely monitoring flood-prone areas of the District of Columbia and crews are working around the clock to clear storm drains and prepare pump stations for increased flows. Emergency equipment and staff are standing by to respond to problems that may occur as a result of the storms.

DC Water is prepared to distribute sandbags to customers that live in the flood-prone neighborhoods of Bloomingdale, LeDroit Park and the 900 block of P Street NW. DC Water personnel will staff a sandbag distribution location for residents of the targeted neighborhoods at First Street and Rhode Island Avenue NW beginning today at 10:00 am. Please note that sandbags will only be distributed to residents in these targeted neighborhoods and they may be asked to show proof of residency at the distribution site.

"As with any weather emergency, our crews will brave the elements to ensure that we continue to deliver our essential service," said DC Water CEO and General Manager George S. Hawkins. "While we cannot control Mother Nature, we will do our best to keep our customers informed and respond to emergencies."

The District’s drinking water treatment facilities — operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Washington Aqueduct — and the Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant are built to withstand the impact of a severe storm. Loss of electricity at an individual home or multi-unit building does not have an impact on the delivery of drinking water. If any service disruptions should occur, customers will be notified immediately through DC Water’s Alert System, local news media and social media platforms, including Twitter (@dcwater), Facebook (facebook.com/mydcwater) and Instagram (@myDCWater).

DC Water Emergency Preparedness Tips:
- Sign up for text or email alerts at dcwater.com/workzones
- Report clogged storm drains by calling the 24/7 Command Center at (202) 612-3400.
- Check gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit that includes a 3-day supply of food and water.
- For more information on preparing for a hurricane, please visit dcwater.com/education/preparedness.cfm.