The Suffolk County Water Authority is preparing for a massive winter storm expected to blanket the region with several feet of snow. Officials say crews are readying for potential water main breaks and service disruptions as conditions worsen.
SCWA Director of Communications Daniel Dubois and South Shore Press reporter Stefan Mychajliw spoke about storm preps.
Mychajliw: What advice do you give to folks with the storm coming?
Dubois: This is definitely a time of year where we experience more main breaks, mostly due to temperature changes as the ground freezes and thaws. When we have a major snowstorm, it makes it harder to find breaks because we often see water bubbling to the surface. Snow makes that harder. If customers notice low water pressure or a disruption in service, that’s a strong indicator there may be a break. We want customers to call our contact center so we can detect and repair issues quickly.
Mychajliw: What number is that?
Dubois: 631-698-9500.
Mychajliw: What storm preps are taking place now?
Dubois: We’re taking a three-pronged approach. First, moving call center reps to remote work so we maintain full capacity. Second, preparing field and maintenance crews with equipment, staffing and trucks ready to respond. Third, ensuring our production control team is monitoring well fields remotely and that backup generators are fueled in case of power outages.
Mychajliw: Any advice about frozen pipes?
Dubois: Yes. Turn off exterior hoses, insulate internal plumbing and, if concerned, let water run at a low trickle to prevent freezing. If you lose water, call us.
Mychajliw: How hard are your employees working around the clock, in preparation for this storm?
Dubois: The only thing I would emphasize is the dedication of our crews who respond to main breaks at all hours, often in blizzard conditions and dangerous cold. This work is physically demanding and requires patience from the public as we navigate snow-covered roads and challenging conditions. We understand how critical water service is to families and businesses. Even if response times are slower during the height of the storm, we are out there working as quickly and safely as possible to restore service and ensure residents continue receiving the water they rely on every day.