Previous studies reveal a strong correlation between cold climates and water supply pipe damage, notably from pipe freezing in winter, which significantly affects millions of people in cold regions. Traditional measures like burying pipes or adding insulation are often ineffective and costly. The role of water flow dynamics in preventing winter freezing is often overlooked. Common advice to keep taps open in winter lacks precise flow rate guidance, causing water wastage. This study investigates the relationship between flow rate and air temperature to establish an optimal balance that prevents freezing while enhancing water supply system efficiency. Experiments used a 0.15-meter diameter Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipe in an environmental chamber set to freezing ambient (air) temperatures, with a continuous water flow maintained inside the pipes. Water temperature monitoring was conducted using probes placed strategically along the pipe. An analytical solution was derived to plot water temperature distribution due to negative temperatures at boundary. Numerical analysis was performed to simulate ice formation in 2-D (axis-symmetrical) geometry with varying boundary temperatures, which were then compared with experimental results. This study identified steady-state conditions between ambient temperature and water flow dynamics and instances of ice formation at specific flow rates and temperatures, leading to flow rate recommendations for different ambient temperatures to prevent winter freezing in water mains. The findings can help urban planners design resilient water supply infrastructure, enhancing sustainability and community resilience. By specifying optimal flow rates to prevent pipe freezing, this study supports sustainable water management.