(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The recent, quick changes in temperatures have caused a few water main breaks around Colorado Springs. The cause of these frequent water main breaks is based on the soil underground, according to Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities).

Springs Utilities said there is a lot of clay in Southern Colorado’s soil which can impact how different pipes and wiring systems function, especially with quick changes in weather conditions.

Last week, Springs Utilities had to deal with a dozen water main breaks throughout the city.

“We have a lot of infrastructure pipes and wires underground. And no matter their age, that kind of soil mixture combined with the rapid shift in temperature from single digits to 40-degree weather and then back down again, just can put a lot of pressure on those underground pipes, especially our water pipes.”

Springs Utilities recommends people who rely on their services have a backup plan as when issues do happen it can take time to make the repairs.