Winter Weather Conditions Contributing to Increase in Baltimore Area Water Main Breaks

Wednesday Dec 28th, 2022

Green banner with DPW logo and text "Department of Public Works Press Release"

Winter Weather Conditions Contributing to Increase in Baltimore Area
Water Main Breaks

Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is experiencing an increase in the water main breaks and water-related service requests due, in part, to freezing temperatures over the weekend and this week’s warmer weather. DPW is working expeditiously to make water main repairs and to respond to water-related service requests.

Cold weather can harm water infrastructure, especially during long periods of cold and repeated freeze/thaw cycles. Water mains break due to a variety of factors, especially freezing and thawing conditions that can cause the ground to shift and put stress on the pipes.

In addition, water service lines and water meters can freeze when the temperature remains below 25 degrees for extended periods of time.

DPW maintains outdoor water lines up to and including the meter. Water lines running from the meter to the house, and internal plumbing, are the responsibility of the property owner.

Responding to Water Main Breaks

When a water main breaks, DPW’s key priority is to restore water service to the homes and businesses experiencing water outages. However, most water mains can be repaired without residents losing water service.

DPW stands ready to repair mains and restore water service and asks for the public’s patience. Crews have received notice and are on standby, and contractors are on-call to assist with repairs.

 Water Main Repair Process

  • Baltimore City residents should report water main breaks and other water emergencies to 311 (phone, mobile app, online). Baltimore County customers should call (410) 396- 5352.
  • A DPW inspector will be dispatched to investigate the break.
  • The water main valve will be located and turned off to cut off the flow of water.
  • Utility lines are identified and marked.
  • Broken pipe section is located, dug up and repaired or replaced.
  • Excavation site is filled in and roads are repaved.

To keep the public informed, DPW has an interactive map that shows up-to-date information on water main repair activity. The interactive map is available on DPW’s website: https://publicworks.baltimorecity.gov/interactive-maps.

To report water main breaks and other water emergencies in Baltimore City, please call 311, or call 410-396-5352 in our Baltimore County service area. 

Related Stories

Baltimore City DPW, Health Department Provide Update on Cryptosporidium, Release New FAQ Document

Today, Saturday, Sept. 30, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) in conjunction with the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD), released additional FAQs on the DPW website and made the following update to the public regarding the discovery of low levels of the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium found during a routine test at Druid Lake Reservoir.

DPW Detects Low Levels of Cryptosporidium During Routine Testing of Druid Lake Reservoir

Today, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) announced that during a routine test of the Druid Lake Reservoir low levels of the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium were discovered. Cryptosporidium is a microorganism commonly found in lakes and rivers, which can potentially cause gastrointestinal problems, particularly, in those who are immunocompromised, elderly, or children.

 DPW Launches Textile Recycling Partnership  Blue Bins Available at Residential Drop-off Centers to Collect  Unwanted Clothes, Textile Items

Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW)  has announced that residents can now bring used clothing, shoes, sheets, and other textiles to any of DPW’s five Residential Drop-off Centers, where large blue collection bins will be available.

Visit the Newsroom

Contact

James E. Bentley II
410-545-6541		 Jennifer Combs
410-545-6541
After hours, weekends, or holidays please call 410-396-3100 for the duty officer

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works supports the health, environment, and economy of our City and region by cleaning our neighborhoods and waterways and providing its customers with safe drinking water and sustainable energy practices.