Water main breaks have surged across New Jersey in recent days as freezing temperatures grip the state.

William Kroth, a civil engineer, says that when the ground freezes, pressure from traffic and potholes is transferred more easily through the soil, putting added stress on aging water pipes.

In Montvale, five water main breaks were reported over the weekend. Repairs are costly, with replacement water lines costing about $1 million per mile, according to Kroth.

Much of New Jersey’s water system was installed decades ago, and in some cases, more than a century ago.

“The problem is these pipes were put in so long ago - out of sight, out of mind,” Kroth said. “Rust never sleeps. Chemical reactions between the soil and the water inside the pipe don’t stop.”

Paterson is a prime example. According to the Passaic Valley Water Commission, 56 water main breaks were reported in January 2025, which is double the number reported in January 2024.

Kroth says without major investment to replace aging pipes, water main breaks will continue to happen more frequently as infrastructure continues to age.