US Deep South water systems fail during cold snap

A cold snap blanketing the US Deep South has upended water systems as local officials struggle to repair widespread leaks and broken pipes, forcing some people to take drastic measures to get by without reliable access to running water. Breakdowns in infrastructure arose in rapid succession after days of freezing temperatures in areas where extended periods of frigid weather are abnormal.

Water being distributed again on Wednesday in Memphis. Up to 15% of Memphis Light, Gas and Water customers were without water this week in Shelby County, the most populous county in Tennessee, because of inadequate water pressure. The breaks resulted in a significant loss of pressure to the drinking water system.

Crews have spent days working to identify leaks, but city officials said pressure remains low or nonexistent. The Environmental Protection Agency is assisting with the effort to repair broken water lines.