The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced that emergency disaster assistance is now available following the collapse of a sewer line that began Jan. 19. Trump’s approval allows FEMA to coordinate relief efforts aimed at protecting public health and safety, safeguarding property, and reducing the risk of further damage.

The assistance applies to the District of Columbia as well as areas in Maryland and Virginia where the District holds responsibility. FEMA is authorized to identify and deploy equipment and resources as needed, with emergency protective measures funded at a 75% federal cost share under the Public Assistance program. Mark K. O’Hanlon has been named federal coordinating officer for the response.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a local public emergency and requested federal support through a 15-day order. She also asked the administration to authorize 100% federal reimbursement for costs incurred by the District and DC Water, which operates the Potomac Interceptor that ruptured.

The collapse resulted in an estimated 243 million gallons of untreated wastewater flowing into the Potomac River through Jan. 24. DC Water installed a temporary bypass pipeline to prevent additional contamination, and repairs are expected to take four to six weeks.

The incident has drawn responses from officials in Maryland and Virginia, as well as from the White House. The administration said it is coordinating with affected jurisdictions while continuing to monitor recovery and environmental impacts in the region.