Crews address over 100 active water leaks in Beaumont amid severe drought

10/29/24 BEAUMONT — Water is pouring into streets across Beaumont as the city deals with an increase in water leaks.

Last summer, the city experienced a drought that led to water rationing. Mike Harris, the city's water utility director, says his department began preparations as soon as they knew drier conditions were coming

“One day last week we had 26 in one day,” Harris said. “It can be overwhelming at times, but we just keep a steady pace and get it sorted out.”

There are currently 100 active water leaks in the city (as of October 29). Harris blames the drought, saying dry soil causes underground pipes to shrink, causing them to break.

Harris says most of Jefferson County is currently experiencing a D2 drought, or severe drought. Just over a year ago, the city experienced an exceptional drought, two levels higher than the current one. Harris says it's not as bad as last year, but it's causing some problems for the city.

“Things that citizens could see would potentially be low pressure. If there is a main break near your area, some citizens may actually see discolored water,” Harris said.

Instead of the usual four teams responding to leaks, the city has nine teams on site pulling personnel from other projects to work on them and repair areas that needed to be excavated.

“Once we start getting regular rain showers, obviously that will definitely slow down the leaks and then we can catch up,” Harris said.

Citizens can help by calling 311 to report leaks if they see them. Harris said a blue stake in the ground means the leak has been investigated. However, smaller leaks may take one to two weeks to resolve as the city is currently focused on larger leaks.

Harris says he's monitoring the drought, but what his department really needs is consistent rain. Expect rain possibly towards the end of the week.