Potomac Interceptor Repairs Update
February 13, 2026

• No overflow events impacting surface waters have been reported in the past 24 hours.
• Four additional high-capacity bypass pumps arrived on site today. Two of the pumps are expected to be operational in advance of the forecasted weather on Sunday to help manage anticipated higher flows associated with rainfall and snowmelt.
• Crews continue advancing construction of the two new access pits to support full installation of the enhanced bypass pumping system. These additional pumps will increase system redundancy and capacity as work progresses.
• Due to the configuration of the system and the location of the rock dam within the damaged section of the interceptor, the potential for an overflow remains until crews are able to safely access and remove the obstruction and complete repairs to fully restore normal flow conditions.

Protecting public health and the Potomac River is DC Water’s top priority. Updates will be provided as work continues.

The latest water quality sampling results are below and can also be found on our dedicated page with the latest information on the Potomac Interceptor Collapse at dcwater.com/potomac-interceptor-collapse.

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 are common and are influenced by multiple factors, such as weather (rainfall/snow melt and associated runoff) and subwatershed activities and conditions, including aging sewer infrastructure and illicit discharges.