DC Water Boosts Pumping to Address Potomac Sewer Collapse

Utility warns overflow risk remains until rock dam is removed from damaged pipe

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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D.C. Water has increased pumping capacity and activated a third wastewater flume at the site of the massive Potomac sewer pipe break, but warns the threat of another overflow won't subside until a rock dam inside the damaged pipe is removed. The utility says three more bypass pumps have arrived and can be brought online to add more capacity if needed.

Why it matters

The Potomac sewer collapse has raised concerns about potential overflows and environmental impact in the Washington, D.C. area. D.C. Water's efforts to boost pumping and bypass capacity are aimed at mitigating the risk, but the rock dam obstruction remains a key obstacle to fully restoring normal operations.

The details

D.C. Water said Sunday that crews have increased pumping power and activated a third wastewater flume while preparing a steel bulkhead that would allow them to reach and remove the rock obstruction inside the broken Potomac Interceptor. All four new high-capacity bypass pumps are now fully operational, boosting overall flow capacity and reliability as the utility manages higher volumes from rainfall and melting snow and ice. Fabrication of the steel bulkhead is nearly finished, with installation expected late next week. Once installed, the bulkhead will block flow into the damaged section, allowing crews to stabilize the surrounding ground, remove the rock dam, and begin permanent repair work.

  • On Sunday, D.C. Water activated a third wastewater flume near Lock 10.
  • Three more bypass pumps have arrived on site and can be brought online later this week.

The players

D.C. Water

The utility company responsible for water and sewer services in Washington, D.C.

Potomac Interceptor

The large sewer pipe that carries wastewater from the Washington, D.C. area to a treatment plant and experienced a major collapse.

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What’s next

Once the steel bulkhead is installed, crews will be able to stabilize the surrounding ground, remove the rock dam inside the interceptor, and begin permanent repair work on the damaged pipe.

The takeaway

D.C. Water's efforts to boost pumping capacity and bypass flow are helping to mitigate the risk of sewer overflows from the Potomac collapse, but the utility warns that the threat won't fully subside until the rock obstruction inside the damaged pipe is removed and normal flow conditions are restored.