Washington declares state of emergency over Potomac River spill

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a state of emergency following an environmental incident on the Potomac River caused by the rupture of a major sewer line.

In an official order, Bowser directed city authorities to activate and coordinate mutual aid agreements between the District of Columbia and federal, state, or local agencies as needed to assist the district’s response to the incident. The order is in effect for 15 days, Caliber.Az reports.

“District Government agency directors are authorised to activate, implement, and coordinate mutual aid agreements between the District of Columbia and federal, state, or local jurisdictions as needed to assist in the District's response to the incident,” the order read.

The mayor also issued instructions for monitoring the Potomac River to protect the environment and public health, and for providing residents with guidance on personal safety. 

Additionally, Bowser demanded full reimbursement from the federal government for expenses incurred by the district and DC Water, the city’s water and sewer authority.

By Jeyhun Aghazada