City of Atlanta

Department of Watershed Management

Press Release

January 12, 2010 – Department crews have been working around the clock since sub-freezing temperatures have caused water mains to break in communities across Atlanta. The Department has counted 81 main breaks since Jan. 1, a number it is attributing largely to weather. When temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing, soil can expand and contract, putting pressure on water mains and causing breaks.

Work that the Department has done over the last several years replacing water mains in a number of communities and water meters citywide has likely lessened the impact of the weather, according to Commissioner Rob Hunter. “We knew we would feel the effects of this prolonged freeze,” Hunter said. “But our crews have reacted quickly and effectively to minimize the impact of these main breaks on our customers. Furthermore, the infrastructure work we have done as part of Clean Water Atlanta has helped keep the weather effects to a minimum.”

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The Department of Watershed Management provides drinking water and wastewater collection and treatment services to more than 1 million people over a 650-square-mile area.

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