Pittsburgh’s water intakes are back to functioning normally after the Allegheny River experienced freezing temperatures on Tuesday.
Residents in the Northeast are really starting to feel the winter chill.
On Tuesday morning, officials from the Pittsburgh Water Authority noticed ice forming in the river, which blocked the city’s water intake for the treatment facility.
According to the Pittsburgh Water District, ice jams limited their pumping capacity, particularly affecting higher elevation areas within the service region.
These treatment plants play a crucial role in eliminating harmful bacteria and chemicals from various water sources.
“Ice blocked the water intakes along the Allegheny River due to the cold,” a statement from Pittsburgh Water noted. “This resulted in reduced treated water production at our facilities.”
Typically, when blockages occur—especially common along the Allegheny this time of year—officials will temporarily shut off pumps to clear the ice.
After about 45 minutes of initial treatment, emergency personnel managed to remove the ice that had formed at the water intake.
Barges and tugboats quickly responded and assisted with icebreaking efforts.
“Pittsburgh Water is employing several strategies to handle this issue, such as manually breaking the ice from above, using hoses to push it away from the intake, and employing mechanical methods from the barge,” the statement emphasized.
With the help of barges and tugboats, the accessible ice and debris were successfully broken up.
Now, pump capacity has returned to normal levels, and Pittsburgh Water plans to keep an eye on the situation as the frigid temperatures persist in the coming days.
