Perhaps you’ve heard, but if not: there was a massive sewer main break up along the C&O Canal near the DC and Maryland border. Millions of gallons of raw sewage poured out and into the river. It was really bad.
Well it’s still really bad. All that incredibly harmful material is still working its way downstream. And as a consequence, the river has exceedingly high levels of dangerous materials like E. Coli and Staph. Councilmember Pinto put out a warning yesterday to tell people to stay away from the river right now:
As DC Water continues to work to address the recent sewage spill into the Potomac River, my primary focus remains protecting public health and our ecosystem, and I want to provide you with important updates you need to know:
Your drinking water is treated and remains safe. The overflow occurred downstream from the Washington Aqueduct’s intakes at Great Falls.
It’s now estimated to take 4-6 weeks of additional time for cleaning and repairs after a recent inspection of the Potomac Interceptor revealed a blockage inside the sewer line.
Keep distance between the riverbank, river water and you and your pets. Do not have any contact with the river water, including fishing and boating. Clean yourself or your clothing as soon as possible if you touch water or land along the riverbank.
Remember it is never safe to walk on frozen ice over the river.
Freezing may preserve the bacteria, which can be released later when the ice melts again.
We will continue to share what we know and work towards long-term remediation plans.
So stay away from the river until you hear the all clear!
The Georgetown Metropolitan 
Topher,Thanks for this message!All best,Tom