Jan 22, 2025
Drivers on Milwaukee's northwest side faced a tricky commute home Wednesday after a water main break at Sherman and Burleigh left deep puddles on sidewalks and slowed traffic at the busy intersection.This follows Wednesday's warmer temperatures, which came after Milwaukee endured wind chills near -30 and air temperatures below -10 Tuesday morning.-RELATED:-Contact Milwaukee Water Works 24-hour Control Center-Read more about their water main responseWatch: Sherman and Burleigh water main break floods intersection Sherman and Burleigh water main break floods intersection"I'm worried about the cars going by that dont realize just how deep it is over here," said Ebony Boyland.Boyland lives steps away from the flooded street and said she's seen drivers struggle to get through the water."My neighbors actually have to park on the street, and there are a lot of issues if you have to park in this or drive through it while your front end is going down into the water."During cold weather, Milwaukee Water Works typically sees an increase in water main breaks, according to Patrick Pauly, superintendent of Milwaukee Water Works. Milwaukee's Department of Public Works (DPW) reported that in 2025 alone, there have been over 70 water main breaks in the city.A spokesperson said that number "reflects the challenges posed by the recent extreme cold and fluctuating temperatures, which can place stress on the water infrastructure."Water mains are located about 6-1/2 feet beneath the streets, and for the cold to impact them, the frost line must reach that depth. Nearly half of all breaks occur during December, January, and February. A main break may also result in temporary water shutoff to customers served by the main. The biggest impact of a water main break in winter is icy conditions caused by water flooding the street.Milwaukee residents can report a water main break by calling the Milwaukee Water Works Control Center at (414) 286-3710.They are open 24-hours.Its about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for TMJ4 on your device.Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip
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