Brunswick County, N.C. — Brunswick County Public Utilities has issued a freeze warning for all water customers as forecasters predict a stretch of severe winter weather from January 15–17, 2026. Officials are urging residents to take immediate steps to protect household plumbing, irrigation systems, and backflow devices from potential freeze damage.
Brunswick County officials warn that prolonged freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs and service disruptions. Homeowners are encouraged to insulate exposed pipes, seal crawl space openings, and locate their main water shut‑off valve in case of emergencies.
Residents who are unsure of their shut‑off valve location or who do not have one installed are advised to keep Brunswick County Public Utilities’ emergency numbers accessible: 910‑253‑2657, 910‑371‑3490, and 910‑454‑0512.
Additional recommendations include disconnecting outdoor hoses, opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation, and letting faucets drip slightly to keep water moving. For frozen pipes, officials suggest using warm, damp towels to assist thawing while avoiding open flames or excessive heat, which can cause fires or damage plumbing.
The county also issued detailed guidance for residents with irrigation systems. Exposed backflow assemblies should be drained and removed when possible. If left in place, assemblies should be inspected for cracks, drained completely, and left with valves slightly open to prevent trapped water from freezing. Wrapping assemblies with blankets or towels can provide extra protection during peak cold.
Outdoor showers and other exposed fixtures should be isolated and drained. A small amount of RV/Marine antifreeze — not automotive coolant — may be added to drains or toilets vulnerable to freezing.
Officials also remind residents to turn off irrigation systems during freezing conditions to prevent hazardous icy sidewalks and driveways.
Brunswick County Public Utilities encourages all customers to prepare ahead of the cold snap and to keep emergency contact numbers readily available should water lines or irrigation systems fail during the freeze.
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