City of Houston says water systems stable after freeze but expects increase in demand due to leaks as pipes thaw

HOUSTON – Administrators with Houston Public Works say the city’s water systems are stable following our three-day freeze, but they expect to see an increase in water demand as pipes begin to thaw out and possibly cause leaks.

Since Friday, officials said there have been 182 work orders created regarding water leaks, and 107 repairs have been completed. All locations that have not been completed have scheduled repair dates.

Officials said they are seeing an increase in demand due to some private and public right-of-way water leaks.

Houston Public Works Director Carol Haddock said Tuesday that burst pipes will most likely happen as the city comes out of freezing weather Wednesday afternoon.

By the numbers:

• More than 280 calls to 311 regarding water main valves and water leaks.
• 144 are still active, according to 311.
• 142 were resolved.

To report water leaks, the public is being asked to call 311 and Customer Account Services (CAS) to get assistance to shut off their water during pipe bursts. CAS has received very few calls to shut off water.