Northumbrian Water reassures customers after ‘brutal’ winter weather

Northumbrian Water has moved to reassure customers they are on top of their services despite the recent freezing weather.
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After battling a brutal combination of harsh snow and icy winds when Storm Darcy struck the UK, the water company is now tackling the rapid thaw which has taken place across the North East.

Spells of changing weather have caused disruption across the region. But Northumbrian Water say they have been doing their best to ensure their operations and services continue as normal.

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With temperatures dropping low as minus 16 degrees in some parts of the region earlier in February, workers have continued to serve communities by providing water and wastewater services throughout a difficult lockdown.

Roddy Perryman, a production operator for Northumbrian Water, has been out in all weathers in the course of his duties.Roddy Perryman, a production operator for Northumbrian Water, has been out in all weathers in the course of his duties.
Roddy Perryman, a production operator for Northumbrian Water, has been out in all weathers in the course of his duties.

Across the North East 180 members of staff on the ground looking for and repairing leaks caused by the thaw.

The chance of pipes leaking and bursting is significantly increased when freezing or thawing occurs and the pipe expands, forcing it apart.

This can also happen in main pipes when there is ground movement or exertion, which is also something that happens with rapid changes in temperature.

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Martin Lunn, head of Water Service Planning at Northumbrian Water, said: “As well as assisting with frozen pipes, bursts and leaks, our people have also been on hand 24 hours a day to help with the high levels of calls and contacts from our customers.

“We know that losing water supply can be difficult for our customers; which is why our people have been working harder than ever to minimise the risks where we can to prevent this from happening.

“Our people have incredible dedication and have made such a fantastic effort to keep the flow of great-tasting water going into homes, and I am very proud of them all.

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According to the Association of British Insurers, a burst pipe will cost an average of £8,800 to repair. Northumbrian Water advises customers to make sure they check for leaks and know where to find their stop-tap.

For more advice on how to best protect your home during the winter months, visit www.nwl.co.uk/winter

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