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Sherman and Burleigh water main break floods intersection

Milwaukee's Department of Public Works (DPW) reported that in 2025 alone there have been over 70 water main breaks in the city.
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Water main break Sherman and Burleigh
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MILWAUKEE — Drivers on Milwaukee's northwest side faced a tricky commute home Wednesday after a water main break between Locust and 44th left deep puddles on sidewalks and slowed traffic as water spread to Sherman and Burleigh.

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 response

Watch: 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 don’t 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.

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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.

Water main break Sherman and Burleigh

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.

Milwaukee Water Works says a crew will work on repairing the main break Thursday.

They are open 24-hours.


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