Category: Hot topics

Winter storms can bring a combination of freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and extended power outages that pose significant challenges to water systems. Even brief periods of extreme cold can impact treatment processes, freeze exposed equipment, limit staffing, and disrupt transportation and chemical deliveries. Preparing now helps ensure continued safe operation and reliable service throughout the winter season.

Key preparedness reminders for waterworks:

• Inspect and protect vulnerable equipment such as exposed pipes, meters, chemical feed lines, and outdoor instrumentation.
• Verify backup power systems and ensure fuel, generators, and transfer switches are ready for potential outages.
• Confirm employee call-down lists and ensure staff understand inclement weather reporting procedures.
• Review chemical inventory and resupply plans in case road conditions delay deliveries.
• Coordinate with local emergency management and monitor updates from the National Weather Service.

Prepare for customer impacts such as frozen service lines and potential low-pressure events

Being proactive with winter storm readiness supports operational resilience, protects infrastructure, and ensures the continued delivery of safe drinking water to Virginia communities. More information on winter weather and emergency preparedness can be found here.

EPA has introduced the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) and Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). ODW staff have compiled resources for utilities to ensure they properly implement the rule changes and additions.

Information can be found here

The MOR submittal form can be accessed here.

For instructions and guidance on how to submit the form please view the following recording and jump to 49:09 in the video.

On January 6, 2025 a winter weather-related power outage impacted operations at the City of Richmond’s water plant along the James River. As a result, the City of Richmond, Hanover, Henrico, and Goochland Counties were put under a Boil Water Advisory. The link below provides information on the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) response, investigation, and ongoing efforts to increase the City of Richmond’s drinking water system reliability.

More information on the city of Richmond Water Crisis can be found here