CFPUA reports rise in water main breaks caused by cold temperatures

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority is reporting a rise in water main breaks as temperatures drop to some of the coldest in years.

This week alone, CFPUA dealt with two water main breaks, bringing the total to 43 since January 1. 

Water main breaks can lead to low water pressure and the potential for bacteria to enter pipes. When a break happens, it’s important to boil water before consuming it. 

While 43 breaks may sound like a lot, CFPUA Public Information Officer Cammie Bellamy said they are more common during periods of freezing and thawing temperatures. 

“That freeze, and then especially that unfreeze as temperatures rise, is going to cause things to shift, and that shifting of the pipe can cause it to crack or become dislodged at different joints,” she said. 

Bellamy added water main breaks are most common in areas with older pipes, such as  downtown Wilmington.  

Those aging pipes are part of the reason CFPUA is replacing the sewer system along 5th Ave. 

“I would say we’re about halfway through as far as the length of the project,” Bellamy said. “We’re scheduled to head up towards Castle Street here in the next couple of weeks and work with progress further down 5th after that.” 

The project is expected to be completed in 2026. 

If you see water flowing in the street or a broken hydrant, Bellamy is asking residents to reach out to CFPUA’s emergency line at 910-332-6565 to report any water main breaks.