Midland is among the list of Texas cities facing an increasing number of water main breaks due to extreme drought conditions, a recent YourBasin report says.
In drought conditions, soil contracts, and large cracks can develop. They can extend feet into the ground, putting pressure on underground pipes, causing them to crack or break. Midland public works crews are seeing an average of three breaks a day that cause water outages lasting three hours or more, the news report said.
The issue was discussed earlier this month by City of Midland Utilities Director Carl Craigo and representatives from 14 other Texas cities, seeking potential solutions.
Midland has already put preventive measures into place, the report said. A contract for satellite leak detection has been approved by the City Council, as well as a $2 million annual investment over the next five years.
“While these challenges are formidable, the collaborative discussions and the steps Midland is undertaking signify our commitment to resilience and ensuring reliable water service for our community,” Craigo said.
Midland residents are encouraged to report water main break cases at 432-685-7261, or 432-685-7108 after hours, YourBasin reported.