August 17, 2023 – Water Distribution Operations
Waterworks crew making a hot repair of a water main break in an alley near 9th and Polk
In dry weather, the soil surrounding water mains shrinks. This movement puts stress on the pipes and causes leaks and breaks. Hot, dry conditions have increased the frequency of breaks by 46% in the first 7 months of 2023 compared to the same period last year.
Our crews typically perform “hot” repairs while the pipe remains pressurized. Hot repairs minimize disruption of water service to our customers.
In the past week, HWWS crews repaired a total of 24 breaks and leaks throughout Harlingen’s water system.
Big kudos to the crewmen who work under difficult conditions to keep Harlingen’s water and wastewater flowing 24/7/365.