DC declares public emergency to get federal help to stanch, clean up historic Potomac sewage spill

D.C. Democrat Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a local public emergency in response to a break in a major sewage-and-wastewater pipeline roughly 30 days ago that has resulted in over 240 gallons of contaminated water spilling into the Potomac River.

Officials say the spill, one of the largest in U.S. history, is not impacting drinking water but still poses significant risks to health and the environment, according to local TV station NBC Washington. 

Bowser's declaration allows her to request a Presidential Emergency Disaster Declaration, which could bring in federal support to help respond to the disaster.

The declaration also follows D.C., Maryland and Virginia officials having a meeting Wednesday at the White House with Environmental Protection Agency officials that was also attended by Federal Emergency Management Agency officials. 

President Trump has been critical of the local response to the spill and has publicly sparred with Maryland Democrat Gov. Wes Moore over who's responsible.