Every year, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reports approximately 600 water main breaks, most of which are minor. Temperature change causes most water main breaks. A 10-degree change in air or water temperature can cause pipes to contract or expand, making them fragile.

If you see water coming up from the ground or roadway, or suspect a water main break, call 311 to reach DEP. Be prepared to provide:

• A description of the condition
• What is being affected (street, cellar, basement, subways, etc.)
• The exact location of the problem
• Your name, address and telephone number

Learn more about water main breaks

Flash floods can strike any time with little or no warning. City streets can become rivers in seconds. Most flash flooding is caused by slow-moving thunderstorms, thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area, or heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms. Blocked catch basins, storm drains, water main breaks, and sewer lines can also lead to flooding.

Learn more about how to protect yourself before, during, and after a flood