HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, state and city officials are actively engaged in recovery efforts while addressing environmental concerns. On Monday, Houston Public Works reported that approximately 154,000 gallons of wastewater were inadvertently released due to the impact of strong winds and heavy rainfall from the storm.
The spill occurred at 800 Commerce Street, attributed to storm-related conditions exacerbated by power outages. Despite this incident, Houston officials have reassured residents that the city’s drinking water remains safe, emphasizing there is no need to boil water for those receiving their supply from municipal sources.
Public Works officials have stated they are actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant agencies to mitigate any potential impacts. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) mandates a notification protocol for such incidents, advising residents within a half-mile radius of the spill site or potentially affected areas to use distilled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and other personal uses until further notice. Private well users are urged to have their water tested and disinfected as necessary.
Residents are also advised to avoid direct contact with affected waste materials, soil, or water, and refrain from swimming in areas possibly affected by the spill. In case of contact, individuals should promptly bathe and wash their clothes thoroughly.
For ongoing updates and additional information, residents can contact their local water supply distributor or visit relevant city and state agency websites.
