Potomac Interceptor Collapse Update
Tuesday, February 17, 2026

• No overflow events impacting surface waters were reported overnight. No overflow events impacting surface waters have been reported since February 9, 2026.
• DC Water continues making significant progress toward stabilizing the Potomac Interceptor, with crews successfully testing the bulkhead system and bypass pumps. Six of the seven new high-capacity pumps are now operational, with the seventh expected to be online tomorrow. Crews are continuing to test and optimize the enhanced bypass system and expect it to be fully operational by the end of the week.
• Crews continue actively managing the system, taking individual pumps offline in a controlled manner during periods of lower flow to perform preventative maintenance and ensure continued reliability.
• Once fully operational, the enhanced bypass system is expected to allow crews to safely begin excavation around the collapse site. This critical step will enable engineers to fully assess the extent of the blockage and pipe damage, begin removal of the rock dam, and initiate repairs to restore normal flow within the interceptor.
• Specialized cleaning equipment has been mobilized to assist with removing debris that may migrate within the pipe as excavation progresses.

Water Quality Sampling Results:

Historical data indicate typical E. coli levels in the Potomac River can range from 10 to 5,000 MPN/100mL. Variability in E. coli results is common and influenced by factors such as weather conditions, runoff, aging sewer infrastructure, and illicit discharges.