The City of Winnipeg said Thursday the number of properties affected by frozen pipes increased again, with 722 now on its list.
Along with frozen pipes, water main breaks continue to pose challenges around the city.
A large water main break Thursday morning left St. Maurice School on Pembina Highway with little water and meant an early end to classes.
"It's not unsafe, but it's potentially unsanitary. Kids couldn't wash their hands. We are a kindergarten to Grade 12 school so hand washing is quite important,” said Bryan Doiron, school principal.
Over near Polo Park, the Earls restaurant has been closed to customers since Monday. Crews have been working to fix a water main break nearby.
"We're trying to be patient. But after day one and day two, when you have over 100 people working in this building it gets to be a bit tough,” said Chris Kopansky, general manager.
The Fort Rouge Leisure Centre also had to close Thursday due to a water main break.
The city said it's working as fast as it can to repair broken water mains and thaw pipes, but it only has so many pieces of equipment. Private contractors have been unsuccessful using their equipment -- and city staff say other municipalities can't help.
"Because they're experiencing the same issue. And we've been asking them for access, not just access to equipment but also been checking with them on what kind of activities and actions are you taking to assist residents and property owners,” said Diane Sacher, from the city’s water and waste department.
