Trump Approves Disaster Aid for Washington, D.C. After Potomac River Sewage Spill

The federal government will provide emergency assistance to help the city address the wastewater system failure.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 12:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump has approved providing emergency aid to Washington, D.C. to help the city address a breach in the sewage system that has resulted in a major spill into the Potomac River. The federal disaster declaration will unlock federal resources and funding to assist with the cleanup and infrastructure repairs.

Why it matters

The Potomac River is a vital waterway for the Washington, D.C. region, providing drinking water and recreational opportunities. A large sewage spill poses significant environmental and public health risks that require a coordinated response from local and federal authorities.

The details

The sewage system failure occurred at a pumping station, causing millions of gallons of untreated wastewater to flow into the Potomac River over several days. District officials have warned residents to avoid contact with the river water until the spill can be contained and cleaned up.

  • The sewage system breach was first detected on February 19, 2026.
  • President Trump approved the disaster declaration on February 21, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States who approved federal disaster assistance for Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C.

The capital city of the United States that is requesting federal aid to address the sewage spill in the Potomac River.

Potomac River

A major river that flows through the Washington, D.C. region and provides drinking water and recreational opportunities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This spill is a serious threat to the health of our waterways and our community. We appreciate the swift action from the federal government to provide the resources we need to address this emergency.”

— Muriel Bowser, Mayor of Washington, D.C.

What’s next

District officials will work with the Environmental Protection Agency and other federal agencies to contain the spill, conduct cleanup efforts, and make necessary repairs to the wastewater infrastructure.

The takeaway

This disaster declaration highlights the importance of maintaining critical water infrastructure and the need for federal-local coordination to respond effectively to environmental emergencies that threaten public health and natural resources.