High heat, high demand and thirsty soil are breaking Fort Worth’s water pipes
A combination of high demand and high temperatures are putting a strain on Fort Worth’s aging water infrastructure.
There have been 378 water main breaks in 2023, with over a third of them coming in the last 30 days.
Roughly 90% of those breaks have come from aging cast iron pipes. Eventually these pipes will be replaced, but it’s going to take decades to update the roughly 800 miles of cast iron pipe, said Mary Gugliuzza, a spokesperson for the city’s water department.
However, summer 2023 is on track to have fewer water main breaks than 2022, according to water department data.
Fort Worth’s water system had 448 main breaks for June, July and August 2022. While we’re only halfway through August, there have been only 225 breaks during the same period in 2023.
“We don’t anticipate beating last year’s number. It would take a lot to reach,” Gugliuzza said.
Water main breaks are not uncommon in the summer months. High heat sucks moisture out of the soil causing it to shift and crack pipes. There’s also increased demand, which puts a strain on water mains.
The region hasn’t had any measurable rainfall since July 16, according to the National Weather Service.
The Metroplex has had 21 consecutive days of triple digit heat, which ties the 2022 streak for sixth most in history.
The city encourages residents to report main breaks using the MyFW app or by calling 817-392-4477.
“Don’t assume your neighbor’s going to report it,” Gugliuzza said.
She also encouraged residents to keep to their assigned watering days and not to water lawns during the hottest part of the day between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
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