Missouri American notes more water main breaks

During this period of cold weather, Missouri American Water officials said Wednesday they are experiencing more water main breaks than usual - especially in Jefferson City and St. Louis County, where rivers are the main water source.

The water treatment process cleans the water, but when the water leaves the plants it travels through 20- to 100-year-old pipes, and those pipes can break under the stress of unusually cold water.

Company officials said every year they prepare for the increase in water main breaks in cold weather with crews available to repair main breaks 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Water main breaks should be reported to the company's customer service center at 1-866-430-0820.