Quick Temperature Drop Causes Multiple Water Main Breaks
The City is repairing multiple locations where water main pipes have cracked due the quick drop in temperature that started on Sunday. Since Monday at 12 pm there were 9 water main breaks across the city, resulting in water service interruptions in most cases.
“This cluster of water service pipes breaking is due to the sudden drop in temperature this week,” says Russ Munro, Director of Water & Waste Stream. “As the ground freezes, the frost can disrupt underground utilities. Regardless of the age of the pipes – new or old – frost can cause the ground to shift and this slight movement can cause a pipe to crack and leak water.”
On Monday evening, a break on primary water main along 25th Street caused a full road closure between 5th Avenue and 3rd Avenue. The repair process at this location is already underway and the road is expected to re-open before the Thursday morning traffic peak. Until then, drivers are advised to reroute their commute, use the Broadway Bridge and allow themselves extra time.
“We are managing this influx of repairs the best we can with our own staff and contractor assistance, to ensure that we stay as close to our 48-hour target for repairs as possible,” says Munro.
Overnight Saturday, the temperature dropped from around zero to -17, which was sustained for the past few days. With warmer weather in the forecast for this week, the ground frost may subside.
What you can expect from us
- The water will be turned off at locations affected by water main breaks until the repair is complete.
- Occupants of affected businesses and homes will receive a yellow Drinking Water Advisory door hanger with instructions for using water once the water is restored.
- A water trailer or other drinking water will be provided to locations where the repair will take more than 24 hours. Affected residents can visit a nearby City of Saskatoon Leisure centre with identification to confirm their address to use the shower facilities at no charge.
- When the water is restored, several samples are tested to ensure there is no bacteria and it is safe to drink, which can 24-48 hours.
- A green Lifted Drinking Water Advisory door hanger will be delivered to confirm the water is safe to drink, with instructions for flushing out taps and your water heater.
For more information about drinking water service, visit saskatoon.ca/drinkingwater.