(Image Credit: File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Complicated by significant snowfall

Pipe repair completed after water main break in Melfort

Mar 5, 2026 | 1:58 PM

Public Works crews in the city of Melfort have been busy tackling a series of issues over the past couple of weeks. 

It began with the significant snowstorm that hit Saskatchewan a few weeks ago, and subsequent snow since then. 

Another major issue is a water main break on the 100 block of Stovel Avenue East.  

Director of Corporate Services Lydia Steffen, speaking on behalf of Public Works Director Kalyna Cipywnyk, said the weather led to some delays in being able to deal with the situation. 

“Because of the conditions created by the recent snowfall, the excavation and repair work has taken some time,” Steffen explained. “Approximately 20 feet of pipe in the affected area has been addressed. Our focus continues to be restoring normal service safely and as quickly as possible.” 

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The initial call about the water main break was received in the middle of the night, and Steffen said crews responded and began to assess the situation. The visibility and snowfall hindered their efforts, and the water supply was shut off to the area as a precaution until the issue could be thoroughly investigated. 

“Once staff were able to safely access the site, they began working to determine the exact source of the leak,” Steffen explained. “Due to the combination of aging infrastructure and the amount of snow and ice present following the recent storm, it took some time to fully locate the break.” 

Residents in the area are experiencing a temporary water shutoff while crews work, and Steffen said a boil water advisory is issued until quality testing confirms the system is safe. 

“Our priority throughout this process has been ensuring residents have access to clean, safe drinking water and restoring service as quickly as possible.” 

Residents are being asked to respect work zones and barricades in the area. Steffen said with the large amount of snow, there are additional barriers and limited space for crews and equipment to work safely. 

Water main breaks are not uncommon, particularly during freeze-thaw cycles that put stress on aging infrastructure. It’s the second such break so far in 2026. 

The good news is that the pipe repair has been completed, and water quality testing will follow. 

Steffen wanted to stress that public works staff are spread thin when snow removal and water main break incidents must be dealt with. 

“One thing that’s important for residents to understand is that in smaller or rural municipalities, the same public works staff handle multiple responsibilities,” Steffen said. “The crew clearing snow is often the same crew responding to water breaks and other infrastructure issues. This particular break also occurred during one of the largest snowfalls of the season, which adds complexity to the work.” 

Steffen said the City appreciates the patience and understanding of residents while crews balance these responsibilities. 

– 

cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com