This is the Thursday, February 18, 1 p.m. update from the City of Galveston.
Many residents of the city remain without power and water due to an unprecedented energy crisis affecting the state of Texas and extensive water line leaks in the system caused by sub-freezing temperatures that are placing a strain on the city’s water supply.
The City of Galveston remains dedicated to providing water service to all residents by addressing water line leaks and maintaining the city’s water supply.
WATER
We estimate approximately 75 percent of Galveston residents are currently receiving water, though with reduced water pressure.
For those with water service, know we are under a boil water advisory, meaning any water for human consumption must be boiled and cooled before drinking.
Currently, our water supply is maintaining steady. We continue to monitor this in real-time. Please understand that if the water supply begins to deplete, we will be forced to restrict water use.
We ask that residents continue to conserve water by limiting water use to essential uses. Please reduce the length of your shower and avoid running dishwashers or washing machines.
If you are experiencing a water leak, or notice a broken water main, and need assistance with turning the water off, please contact the Municipal Utilities Department at 409-797-3630.
This is a huge team effort and we are working as hard as we can to get the water system back up and running. Thank you to our hard-working municipal utilities team who are addressing water main breaks and monitoring water supply across the city.
SUPPLIES
The City has secured drinking water and public bathrooms, which are arriving to the island later today. We will post information about distribution sites as soon as possible. We anticipate these sites will open early this evening, but stay tuned for updates on social media @CityofGalveston and through our emergency system, which you can sign up for at galvestontx.gov/onecall.
Beginning Friday, February 19 at 9 a.m., the City will begin accepting bottled water donations at the Island Community Center, 4700 Broadway.
POWER
As of 12 p.m. today, CenterPoint Energy is reporting that 40,000 customers remain without power. Due to electricity shortages on the Texas power grid, rolling blackouts are possible. Please be aware there may be disruptions to service.
ASSISTANCE
Residents should begin tracking the expenses they incur as the result of the winter storm in case individual assistance becomes available from FEMA.
These means taking photos of water damage before getting it fixed. Photographing spoiled food and tracking expenses for items such as plumbing repairs, lodging, etc.
There is no guarantee of individual assistance at this time, but we want our residents to be aware and prepared.
LOOKING FORWARD
Unfortunately, at this time we anticipate disruptions to energy and water could continue for another week, or longer. The City is planning for these worst case scenarios and working to secure long-term supplies and aid for the island.
If you have not already, please sign up for emergency alerts at galvestontx.gov/onecall
We will continue providing updates as new information is available.