As today comes to a close, we are happy to report that the Seabrook-Kemah Bridge is open and we are now starting to see power return to some areas of Seabrook. This is truly wonderful news, however, we are not out of the woods yet. Temperatures on Thursday will likely stay in the 30’s, but should remain above freezing. Please review today’s update in detail. If you have any questions feel reach out to the city’s communications department by emailing citycomm@seabrooktx.gov.
WATER SUPPLY FAILURE
The Seabrook water system is still seeing critically low levels due to busted pipes and leaks throughout the city. The city’s storage capacity has been greatly depleted and we continue to pull water from the city’s wells, which are not able to keep up with current demands.
We need all Seabrook water customers to continue water conservation efforts. We are asking residents to not use water unless it is for essential use. Do not run dishwashers, garbage disposals, or washing machines. Avoid running water for showers and baths unless necessary. Limit flushing toilets as much as possible; you can use pool water to refill your toilets for flushing when absolutely necessary (do not drink pool water). All conservation efforts will help stabilize the city’s water supply.
Most importantly if you have a leak, please immediately turn off the water to your home. If you need assistance turning the water off to your home you may contact the city for assistance. Do not attempt to turn the water off at the water meter; contact Public Works to turn water on and off at meter. During business hours you may call (281) 291-5725 and after hours you may call (281) 291-5610. You may email pw@seabrooktx.gov or text (281) 636-8687. We will do our best to respond in a timely fashion.
The city is still under a BOIL WATER ADVISORY, so prior to consumption you should bring your water to a rapid boil for two minutes and then let it cool. This includes when using water for cooking. When brushing your teeth, consider using bottled water. It is still safe to take showers/baths and to wash dishes/clothes.
Utility late payment fees will be waived and all utility disconnects due to non payment have been temporarily suspended. Please be advised that late notices may still be released.
We are uncertain at this time how long the conservation efforts and boil water advisory will be required. Water supplies and pressure will not stabilize until leaks can be controlled and repaired. It is important to also understand that there is now a very high demand for area plumbers, so it may take some time to repair lines. Please continue to do your part as we navigate this crisis together.
ELECTRICITY
While we have seen electricity return to some areas of Seabrook, it is still important to conserve as much as possible. Electricity is still in very high demand and many still do not have power. If you do have power, turn down the thermostats and avoid running appliances or electronics that take large amounts of power. The following statement was released by CenterPoint Energy earlier today.
“As power supply conditions allow, power to impacted customers in the Houston-area is being restored by CenterPoint Energy in intervals of time on a rotating basis. Electricity may be on and off periodically and customers need to be prepared to be without power potentially for the duration of the generation shortage event, which could last several more days.
Once power is made available by third-party power generators and received through ERCOT, we are ready to restore power and will do so as quickly and as safely as possible.
Read our latest press release for more details: https://info.centerpointenergy.com/.../CNP_Update_News...
If you or your loved one are in need of assistance, we encourage you to call 211 for help with available local resources and visit https://tdem.texas.gov/warm/ for information on Houston-area warming centers.”
CITY PHONE LINES
The city’s phone lines have been restored including the main non-emergency line. You may now call (281) 291-5610 for non-emergencies. If you have a water leak and need service turned off to your home, please call (281) 291-5725 during business hours or (281) 291-5610 after hours.
ROAD CONDITIONS
The Seabrook-Kemah Bridge is now open. SH146 to the base of the Red Bluff overpass is open. The Red Bluff overpass remains closed, but the frontage/feeder road is open to continue north.
Motorists are encouraged to visit www.drivetexas.org for an updated list of all roadway closures and to find alternative routes if necessary.
TRASH AND RECYCLING SERVICE
Waste Management will resume trash and recycling service on Thursday, February 18, 2021. We anticipate delays due to increased volumes, so please be patient. Areas that Waste Management are unable to complete each day, will be completed the following day. Please remember to only put your bins on the curb on your designated trash pickup days.
CITY OFFICES
City offices will stay closed for the remainder of the week and will reopen on Monday, February 22, 2021.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
The virtual City Council meeting schedule for Wednesday, February 17, 2021 has been canceled. The virtual Planning and Zoning meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 18, 2021 has been canceled.
We encourage everyone to monitor the City of Seabrook’s social media channels and website for additional winter storm updates and to stay off the roads as much as possible.