As communicated yesterday, DC Water investigated a dry weather overflow event at CSO 029 on the Potomac River. This was due to a leak from an 18” sewer pipe located near 3800 Reservoir Road, NW.

Overnight, crews were able to successfully bypass the leak to contain it and prevent further discharges to the Potomac. However, work to repair the leak was suspended for safety reasons during the periods of rain, which can prove deadly when working inside combined sewer pipes. This morning, the contractor was able to complete the repair and the bypass was removed.

The Potomac River is fast moving and any amount of sewage that discharge should dilute quickly. The public is still advised to stay away from the area near Outfall 029 for the next 24 hours in case there are any residual effects on the receiving waters. Anyone on the Potomac today who may come in contact with the water near CSO 029 should take precautions by bathing and washing equipment and clothing.

Information on Dry Weather Overflows can be found here: 
https://www.dcwater.com/css

Information provided to the public yesterday can be found here:
/whats-going-on/news/dry-weather-overflow-advisory

For more information, please contact DC Water’s 24 hour Command Center at 202-612-3400.