DC lifts recreational advisory for Potomac River after sewage spill

Published March 2, 2026 2:41pm ET



The health department in Washington, D.C., lifted its recreational advisory for the Potomac River on Monday, after millions of gallons of raw sewage contaminated it in January.

The announcement allows residents to engage in recreational activities, such as fishing, now that the river’s bacterial levels are within safe ranges. Swimming, however, remains strictly prohibited without a special permit.

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