Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Area Hit by Water Shortage, MAWC Calls for Conservation from 120,000+ Customers Amid Thaw

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Published on January 28, 2025
Pittsburgh Area Hit by Water Shortage, MAWC Calls for Conservation from 120,000+ Customers Amid ThawSource: Photo by SHTTEFAN on Unsplash

Amidst a recent surge in water demand caused by a cold weather snap, The Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County (MAWC) is urging over 120,000 of its service recipients to enact voluntary water conservation measures. As the frosty grip on the Pittsburgh area begins to loosen, the authority is focusing on stabilizing the water supply systems that were strained by increased usage and a rash of leaks, according to details reported by CBS News Pittsburgh.

Consumers are no longer advised to run water to prevent pipe freezing and are asked to check for leaks, particularly in the Indiana Creek, McKeesport, and Sweeney systems. MAWC has launched a notification campaign aiming to reach 121,359 customers to emphasize the need for conservation. Additionally, subsequent systems throughout Monroeville, Plum, Parks, and several other areas are also on the radar for usage reductions, as stated on an interactive map on the MAWC website.

"We're looking and listening for leaks, but while we are working on this, we need our customers to help out by conserving and reporting any leaks known or suspected leak," stated Michael F. Kukura, resident manager of MAWC, as per CBS News Pittsburgh. This collaborative effort between the authority and its customers aims to ensure the rapid restoration of the water supply systems to full capacity.

For those within the service area, the authority has made it simple to report leaks by calling 724 755-5800 or sending an email to [email protected], as provided by a report from WPXI.