City Bulletin: Potomac River Safety Advisory and Capitol Hill Security Preparedness

District Health and Infrastructure Roundup: February 22, 2026

The District of Columbia has issued several critical notices for Sunday, February 22, 2026. Local agencies are coordinating on public health monitoring, infrastructure repairs, and security preparations for upcoming federal events. Residents are encouraged to stay informed of the following active advisories.

Potomac River Water Quality Advisory

DC Health and the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) have extended a strict advisory for all residents and visitors to avoid direct contact with the Potomac River. This notice follows a major structural failure in the Potomac Interceptor sewage line that occurred earlier this year. While DC Water confirms that the District’s municipal drinking water remains safe and is not impacted by this event, recreational activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing are strongly discouraged. Pet owners should ensure animals are leashed and kept away from the water’s edge. Emergency repairs are ongoing with federal disaster assistance, and officials hope to lift the advisory by early March if E. coli levels remain stable at downstream monitoring sites.

Public Health Alert: Measles Exposure Monitoring

Health officials continue to track potential measles exposures at high-traffic regional hubs following confirmed cases earlier this month. The monitoring period remains active for individuals who visited the following locations in late January and early February:

• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Union Station
• Segments of the Washington Metro Red and Yellow lines
• Children’s National Hospital Emergency Department and Orthopedic Clinic (specifically on Feb. 2)

Individuals who are unvaccinated or immunocompromised should monitor for symptoms such as high fever, runny nose, and a characteristic skin rash. If symptoms appear, residents must call their healthcare provider before arriving at a medical facility to prevent secondary transmission.

Traffic and Security: The Wharf and Capitol Hill

A maritime safety zone will be enforced today, February 22, in the Washington Channel. The U.S. Coast Guard will restrict vessel traffic from 6:30 p.m. to 6:40 p.m. for a scheduled fireworks display at The Wharf. On land, the District is beginning preparations for the State of the Union Address scheduled for Tuesday, February 24. Street closures and parking restrictions will begin to take effect this evening around the U.S. Capitol complex, including areas near First Street and Independence Avenue. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes through the middle of the week.

Public Service Reminders

The Department of Public Works (DPW) confirms that food waste drop-off programs are operational today at Sunday farmers’ markets in Dupont Circle, Bloomingdale, and Palisades. Additionally, regular household trash and recycling collections are proceeding on their standard schedules. Residents may report any missed collections or service issues to the Citywide Call Center by dialing 311.