Winter Storms and Climate Resilience at NHSA
Winter weather can create unique challenges for wastewater systems. Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and sudden thaws all affect how water moves through pipes, pump stations, and treatment facilities. At NHSA, winter preparedness means anticipating these conditions and taking steps to prevent problems before they happen.
Wastewater treatment plant during a winter storm.
Extreme winter weather can impact wastewater operations in several ways:
Freeze–thaw cycles can place stress on pipes and infrastructure, especially older systems.
Heavy snowfall followed by rapid melting can overwhelm combined sewer systems and lead to combined sewer overflow (CSO) pollution entering our waterways.
Cold temperatures cause fats, oils, and grease (FOG) to harden more quickly, increasing the risk of clogs and backups.
How NHSA Prepares for Winter Weather
NHSA takes a proactive approach to winter operations to keep wastewater flowing safely and reliably. Preparation begins well before the first snowfall and continues throughout the season.
NHSA monitors regional weather forecasts, system flows, and pump status around the clock.
Key winter readiness efforts include:
Inspecting and maintaining equipment to ensure pumps, pipes, and treatment systems function properly in cold conditions
Monitoring system flows during storms and snowmelt to identify potential issues early
Coordinating with local municipalities and emergency responders during major winter events
These steps help reduce the risk of service disruptions, flooding, and sewer backups.
Managing Snowmelt and Winter Runoff
When snow melts quickly, water can enter the sewer system faster than usual. NHSA works to manage these conditions by maintaining system capacity and responding quickly to reported issues. Keeping water moving efficiently helps protect neighborhoods, streets, and nearby waterways.
What Residents Can Do to Help
Residents play an important role in preventing winter sewer problems. A few simple actions can make a big difference:
Never pour grease down the drain — it solidifies faster in cold weather
Avoid flushing wipes or other non-flushable items
Report sewer backups, flooding, or blocked drains promptly
Working together helps keep the system running smoothly all winter long.