Scientists worry about lasting damage from Potomac sewage spill
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- In January, a decades-old sewer line near the Potomac River in Maryland collapsed, releasing over 200 million gallons of raw sewage into the river, one of the largest sewage spills in U.S. history.
- DC Water is working to divert wastewater around the damaged pipe and begin repairs, while scientists warn the spill could severely impact aquatic life, soil, and the broader Chesapeake Bay watershed.
- Aging infrastructure, population growth, and climate change-induced intense storms are key factors exacerbating sewer system failures nationwide, highlighting the need for significant investment in upgrades.
- Elevated bacteria levels have been detected at the spill site, and warming temperatures may trigger harmful algae blooms, posing ongoing risks to fish, wildlife, and recreational users of the river.
- D.C
