According to FEMA, the declaration of a state of emergency was made in response to the consequences of an accident that occurred on January 19, 2026, which continues to negatively impact the region. This decision allows FEMA to organize federal assistance and implement recovery measures. Mark O'Hanlon, a representative of the agency, has been appointed to coordinate operations.
Trump previously reported on this environmental disaster through his platform Truth Social, pointing out that millions of gallons of untreated sewage were dumped into the Potomac River due to a sewage line break in Maryland. He also noted the sharp unpleasant odor that spread across the metropolitan area.
The President placed the blame for the incident on the Maryland authorities, accusing them of inadequate management of drainage systems. The White House emphasizes the need for a major overhaul of the region's water infrastructure.
The Potomac River, approximately 652 kilometers long, flows through Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, and also frames the capital of the United States — Washington.
