Crews Battle Frozen Ground to Repair Philadelphia Water Main Breaks

Residents urged to take steps to prevent frozen pipes as freezing temperatures continue.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Crews in Philadelphia are working around the clock to fix multiple water main breaks caused by freezing temperatures. Cars in the Fairmount neighborhood and along Front Street were completely covered in ice after recent breaks. The Philadelphia Water Department is urging residents to take steps to prevent frozen pipes and offers a 24-hour hotline for emergencies.

Why it matters

Water main breaks can cause significant property damage and disruption to residents, especially in freezing weather. The Philadelphia Water Department is working to address the issue, but homeowners also need to take precautions to protect their own plumbing and avoid costly repairs.

The details

Crews have been working nonstop at 24th and Aspen streets in the Fairmount neighborhood since Thursday night, trying to break through frozen ground to repair a water main. According to the Philadelphia Water Department, this is just one of several breaks in the city since temperatures dropped below freezing. Another recent water main break happened along Front Street near Allen Streets, leaving several vehicles completely encased in ice.

  • Crews have been working around the clock since Thursday night to repair the water main break at 24th and Aspen streets.
  • Freezing temperatures are expected to last through the weekend in Philadelphia.

The players

Philadelphia Water Department

The municipal agency responsible for the city's water infrastructure and services.

Brian Rademaekers

Public information officer for the Philadelphia Water Department.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have crews working around the clock back to back to back repair to repair to repair - we ask for patience from people.”

— Brian Rademaekers, Public information officer (fox29.com)

“Start by going down to where water meter is try to warm it up slowly don't put a blow torch on plumbing - use a hair dryer use space heater.”

— Brian Rademaekers, Public information officer (fox29.com)

“But little drip will keep it moving moving water much less likely to freeze....At end of day could cost pennies on water bill could save you thousands of dollars in long run to avoid burst pipe situation.”

— Brian Rademaekers, Public information officer (fox29.com)

What’s next

The Philadelphia Water Department has a 24-hour hotline for residents to report water main breaks. The number is 215-685-6300, press 1 to be connected with someone.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and preparation for extreme weather events to prevent costly damage and disruption to a city's water infrastructure. Homeowners also play a crucial role in protecting their own plumbing and avoiding further strain on municipal resources.