PWSA Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority : As Temperatures Drop, the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority Responds to Spike in Water Main Breaks

Pittsburgh, PA The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) is battling cold weather and frigid temperatures to respond to a spike in water main breaks occurring throughout Pittsburgh. Crews are working around the clock to address the water breaks and service disruptions are likely while repairs are being made.

As temperatures drop, water main breaks are more frequent. The cold weather causes pipes to contract and as pressure builds, the more likely it is that a pipe will burst. If a water main break occurs in your neighborhood, PWSA will send a robocall to households within the impacted area, and updates will be provided on Twitter. Please make sure we can reach you by updating your contact information online or by following us at @pgh2o.

When activity increases, PWSA will often have to prioritize its response to breaks by taking into account public safety, water service disruption, traffic impact, and water loss. Before any repairs are made, we also have to contact and coordinate work with other utilities for the purpose of identifying underground gas, electric, or other utility lines. While it may seem that repairs are taking a long time, keep in mind that there are many factors to consider before can begin repairing the water break. Most take four to eight hours to complete and our crews are working as quickly as possible to restore service.

The cold weather is continuing throughout the week. Our Winter Water Tips provide useful information to prevent pipes from freezing in your home and what you should do if you experience a frozen pipe. Please review our FAQ on Winter Water Main Breaks for more information about why they occur and what to expect if one occurs in your neighborhood or on your street.

You may also call us at [phone] to reach our 24/7 Emergency Dispatch line.