FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
MEDIA CONTACT: Kevin Osborne, kevin.osborne@gcww.cincinnati-oh.gov or (513) 516-1966 

(CINCINNATI, OH) –  The City of Cincinnati has experienced unseasonably cold temperatures during the past two weeks, which has resulted in a marked increase in the number of water main leaks and breaks. When water temperatures hover around the 39-degree mark, water density changes and the thermal expansion and contraction in the pipes causes increased stress on the distribution system, leading to more leaks and breaks.  

As of Monday, January 27, Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) is dealing with a total of 68 leaks and breaks. The utility has nine crews working around the clock to make repairs, and this schedule will be maintained until the volume of leaks and breaks returns to a more typical level. 

Crews prioritize repair work based on several factors, including the extent of damage, the number of customers affected, loss of water pressure, and the safety hazard created. “Breaks” are larger disruptions that require GCWW to shut down the water main immediately to avoid a large disturbance and the potential for further damage, while “leaks” involve a lesser loss of water from the system and are of a lower priority than breaks. The area around a leak is salted and regularly checked until repairs are made. 

GCWW had five current shutdowns as of Monday, affecting 33 customers. Another six shutdowns were planned, which will affect 154 customers. It generally takes 6-8 hours to repair a water main break. 

Customers may report leaks and breaks at any time by calling 513.591.5060, by emailing gcww.leaks@gcww.cincinnati-oh.gov, or by going online at https://cagis.hamilton-co.org/311//. 

Additionally, GCWW is now posting video updates about leaks and breaks on Facebook, X, and NextDoor and on GCWW’s online Outage Map at https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/water/leaks-and-breaks/.   

Customers can receive the most up-to-date information via SMS text messaging when a leak or break directly impacts their home or business. Please sign up for this free service online at  https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/water/leaks-and-breaks/ or by calling us at 513.591.7700.