What caused road closures in Matthews and Charlotte on January 27, 2026?

Road closures in Matthews and south Charlotte on January 27, 2026, were caused by water main breaks resulting from frigid temperatures.

Which roads were affected by water main breaks in Mecklenburg County?

West John Street in Matthews and a portion of Providence Road near South Sharon Amity Road in Charlotte were affected by water main breaks.

What are the main dangers associated with the water main breaks?

The main danger is that water on the roads could freeze, creating slick and hazardous conditions for drivers.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Cold Snap Causes Water Main Breaks in Matthews

Cold Snap Causes Water Main Breaks in Matthews

27 Jan

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Summary

Frigid temperatures caused water main breaks in Matthews and south Charlotte.
A water main break closed West John Street in Matthews early Tuesday.
Icy road conditions are a significant concern for drivers due to freezing water.

Cold Snap Causes Water Main Breaks in Matthews

Mecklenburg County experienced frigid temperatures on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, leading to disruptions caused by water main breaks in Matthews and south Charlotte. An incident in Matthews early Tuesday morning forced the closure of West John Street in both directions. Shortly after, a separate water main break necessitated police closing a section of Providence Road near South Sharon Amity Road, affecting traffic flow in both directions.

While outbound lanes on Providence Road reopened before 6 a.m. on January 27, 2026, inbound lanes remained closed. The immediate concern following these breaks is the risk of water on the roadways freezing, creating hazardous slick conditions for motorists. Although most of the recent snow and ice had melted, the presence of freezing water poses a continued danger. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, exercise extreme caution, and remain attentive to road conditions.