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County lifts Potomac shoreline sediment advisory; officials warn against swimming after recent drownings
Summary
Following sediment testing, Montgomery County lifted contact advisories for river shoreline and sediment between Lock 11 and the shoreline around Minis Island, but officials warned residents that swimming in the Potomac remains illegal and dangerous after three recent drownings.
The county executive announced that Dr. Keisha Davis lifted remaining health advisories for shoreline and sediment along the Potomac between Lock 11 and the shoreline near Minis Island after testing showed bacterial levels returned to acceptable levels.
At the same time, officials urged residents not to swim in the Potomac. The county executive said a 25-year-old drowned last week, bringing this year's total to three drownings in the last three months; Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services and county police are coordinating a public-education campaign with U.S. Park Police. "It is illegal to swim in the Potomac River, and it is dangerous to swim in the Potomac River," he said, citing strong currents and sudden drops in the riverbed.
Officials noted ongoing water monitoring and advised recreational use of the shoreline that does not involve swimming; the health officer said sediment testing and continued monitoring will continue.
