Virginia Beach, Va. (WTKR) - For many in Virginia Beach, the winter of 2014 feels like it just won't go away.
Frigid and fluctuating temperatures coupled with multiple snowstorms have led to a variety of problems, including potholes and water main breaks.
Virginia Beach Public Utilities says they've responded to 219 water main breaks attributed to weather between November 2013 and February 2014.
That's compared to 138 between November 2012 and February 2013.
The problem is mostly attributed to drastic swings in temperatures in short periods of time.
"When it fluctuates back and forth every time there's a temperature change, the impact is it does cause the ground to shift, any imperfections in the pipe - that's where there's a water main break," explained Water Distribution Engineer Jim Cherry.
A harsh winter with multiple snowstorms also means more potholes are popping up on roadways.
"About the First of February, we were already seeing an increase and there have been a couple of other storms since then with cold weather, but we don't have to have snow and ice- just the cold weather and the moisture," explained Drew Lankford with Virginia Beach Public Works.
If you see a pothole in Virginia Beach, crews want to hear about it.
To report a pothole, call 757-385-1470 or 311 in Virginia Beach, or “Report a Problem” using this link, or send an email to pwclrks@vbgov.com.
Virginia Beach crews say it is helpful to be as specific as possible, including a street address or cross street, when reporting the location of potholes.
