Philadelphia water main break leaves 50 homes without service amid freezing cold
A major water main break in Philadelphia's Fairmount neighbourhood has left around 50 properties without water. The incident follows days of freezing temperatures, with ice covering nearby streets and sidewalks. Emergency crews have since isolated the leak by shutting down an 8-inch water main.
Residents first noticed water running down the 2300 block of Aspen Street just before midnight on Thursday. By Friday afternoon, neighbours reported icy conditions spreading across several blocks. Among those affected was 80-year-old Vietnam veteran Bill Rapone, whose home flooded after the break. Firefighters assisted him in turning off his heater to prevent further damage.
The Philadelphia Water Department is now working to restore service to the impacted properties. Customers with damage from the leak can call 215-685-6300 and select option 1 for the emergency desk. The same number should be used to report any new water main breaks.
Freezing temperatures are set to continue through Sunday, raising concerns about more breaks. The last time the city experienced over a week of sub-zero conditions was in January 2018, when crews responded to 366 water main failures. While harsh winters—such as those in 2021 and 2024—have seen hundreds of frost-related incidents, the water department has not released an official total for freeze-caused breaks over the past five years.
Repairs are underway to restore water to the affected homes in Fairmount. The ongoing cold snap may lead to further disruptions, with residents advised to stay alert. Anyone experiencing issues can contact the emergency line for assistance.
