Five Water Main Breaks Disrupt Service Across Parsippany

Repairs underway on multiple streets as Township cites winter conditions and aging infrastructure as leading causes

As of Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is responding to five simultaneous water main breaks affecting neighborhoods across the municipality. The impacted areas include Littleton Road, Ridgewood Avenue, Longview Avenue, Glenwood Avenue, and Farmstead Drive.

According to a public alert issued by the Township, residents in these zones should anticipate low water pressure or temporary service interruptions while repair crews work to restore normal operations. The Township has encouraged residents to contact the Water Department at 973-263-7099 or email action@parsippany.net with questions or concerns.

The disruptions are part of a broader seasonal trend affecting the Township’s extensive water distribution infrastructure, which comprises a complex network of transmission mains, smaller distribution pipes, service lines, valves, pumping stations, and elevated storage tanks.

Water main breaks occur for several reasons, with winter being a particularly high-risk period. According to Township officials, breaks during colder months can increase by more than 50% due to a combination of environmental and mechanical stressors. Among the key causes are:

Pipe Age and Material: Older cast iron pipes, common in legacy systems, are more brittle and less able to withstand stress from temperature fluctuations.
Pressure Changes: Sudden changes in pressure, often due to rapid hydrant use or thermal expansion, can stress pipes.
Ground Settling: Gradual soil movement can shift pipe alignments and lead to fractures.
Corrosive Soils: Certain soil types can erode metal pipes over time, weakening structural integrity.

Winter-specific conditions such as frozen soil, thermal contraction of metal pipes, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles place additional pressure on water mains. As temperatures drop, both the ground and the water inside the pipes become colder, increasing the likelihood of sudden cracks and ruptures.

The Township’s Water Department operates year-round with emergency response capabilities in place 24 hours a day. Updates on the status of repairs and service restoration will continue to be shared through Parsippany’s official social media channels.

Residents are advised to monitor local updates and report any visible leaks or service issues directly to the Water Department.