Water intake at risk as frigid temperatures cause river in Pittsburgh to freeze
Treatment plants like Pittsburgh Water are used to clean water of harmful germs and chemicals from rivers, lakes or reservoirs for drinking water.
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PITTSBURGH, Pa. – The winter weather is beginning to cause havoc for residents in the Northeast as freezing temperatures begin to freeze Pittsburgh's water intake.
This morning, officials with Pittsburgh Water noticed ice forming in the Allegheny River, blocking the city's water intake into the treatment plant.
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According to officials at Pittsburgh Water, the ice blockage is restricting capacity and preventing normal pumping operations within the city's service area, especially in high-elevation neighborhoods.
These types of treatment plants are used to clean water of harmful germs and chemicals from rivers, lakes or reservoirs for drinking water.
PITTSBURGH - AUGUST 25: View of Fort Duquesne Bridge, Roberto Clemente Bridge, Andy Warhol Bridge, Rachel Carson Bridge and 16th Street Bridge over the Allegheny River as photographed from Mount Washington in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on August 25, 2016.
(Raymond Boyd / Getty Images)
After about 45 minutes of initial treatment with emergency responders, they were able to clear some ice formation at the water intake. A barge and tugboat are en route and plan on being used to support the ice-breaking efforts.
Conditions have steadily improved since efforts began, according to officials.
Pittsburgh city officials will provide more updates as they become available. Check back for the latest news.