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2d ago

Deep Freeze Triggers Dozens of Baltimore-Area Water Main Breaks, Cutting Service for Hundreds

Officials expect more failures during the freeze–thaw cycle, with repairs coordinated through a dedicated command center.

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Sewage from a massive pipe rupture flows into the Potomac River in Glen Echo, Md., Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. A massive pipe that moves millions of gallons of sewage has ruptured and sent wastewater flowing into the Potomac River northwest of Washington, polluting it ahead of a major winter storm that has repair crews scrambling. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)
Water main breaks led to water shutoffs in two Baltimore-area neighborhoods on Saturday, affecting more than 100 customers in total, amid cold, wet conditions.
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Overview

  • DPW reported roughly 29 to 33 active breaks across Baltimore City and County, with six to seven mains shut and about 223 to 267 homes without water.
  • A major break at 1210 Poplar Hill Road near Falls Road involves 6- and 10-inch mains, required a four-valve turn-down, and has no repair time estimate.
  • The Water Main Command Center is directing crews and contractors to prioritize fixes and monitor system conditions during the prolonged cold.
  • DPW recorded nearly 400 water-related requests Friday, many tied to frozen private lines rather than city mains.
  • Officials noted at least seven additional breaks Sunday morning and urged residents to trickle faucets and report issues to 311 in the city or 443-263-2220 in the county.