A sign warns of the leak near the town of Glen Echo.Image: keystone
Not at all known as a conservationist, the US President is upset about dirty water flowing into Washington’s Potomac River. He quickly identified the culprits.
02/17/2026, 04:4002/17/2026, 04:40
A huge sewage problem in the region around the US capital Washington, in which dirty water was flowing unhindered into the Potomac River, is drawing the US President’s displeasure. Republican Donald Trump struck a blow against Democrats ruling in the region. He wrote on the Truth Social platform that he could not allow their incompetence to “turn the river in the heart of Washington into a disaster zone.”
Trump said he ordered federal authorities to intervene. He left open what exactly was planned. The Federal Disaster Relief Agency should play an important role. According to the city of Washington, there is already collaboration between local, regional and state agencies.
Why wastewater ended up in the river
The Potomac River flows through the middle of the US capital. According to the local water utility, there was a rupture in the sewer line in the Washington area, Maryland, on January 19th. This allowed wastewater to flow unhindered into the river. A bypass line was put into operation on January 24th.
The drinking water is therefore not affected by the incident. At the same time, the population was asked to avoid contact with the river water due to possible viruses and bacteria. Anglers have also been warned. Owners should also keep their pets away from water.
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