01/25/2026
The US National Weather Service Mobile Alabama is predicting extremely low temperatures in our area with a low of 28 degrees Sunday evening and 22 degrees overnight Monday.
Wind chill is expected to drop these temperatures even further.
We suggest that you protect the plumbing in your home or business from these extended freezing temperatures.
Here are a few precautions we recommend:
✅Drip inside faucet(s) about 5 drips per minute at the faucet location furthest from where the water comes into the house
✅Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
✅If a washing machine is in an unheated room, such as a garage, disconnect both the hot and cold water lines. Place both in the drainpipe behind the washing machine. Drip both faucets at about 5 drips per minute
✅Wrap any exposed pipes and backflow preventors located outside or in unheated areas*
✅Know the locations of water shutoff valves
✅Open cabinet doors under sinks
✅If you have a lawn pump, drain it and turn off your irrigation system
*Business owners and tenants may experience a disruption of water service caused by frozen backflow preventers (SEE PHOTO). Most backflow preventers are located above ground and are susceptible to freezing without proper insulation. Backflow prevention devices are usually located on the customer’s side next to the City water meter.
If, upon opening your business, you find that you do not have running water, please contact the City Public Works Department at 850-833-9613 to report the outage. If the backflow device is frozen, please allow it to thaw and inspect it for cracks and leaks. Ice expansion from the prolonged freeze could result in cracked pipes or valves, which will not be readily visible until the ice melts.
If a leak is discovered, the property owner will need to contact a plumber, as the backflow device is the responsibility of the property owner. City crews can assist in determining the issue, but cannot repair or replace backflow devices.