Notice to Operators: Tropical Depression Harvey

AUSTIN – The National Hurricane Center is tracking Tropical Depression Harvey in the western Gulf of Mexico. Landfall is forecast later this week along the Texas Gulf Coast, with possible severe weather impacting the entire Texas Coast and areas inland. 

From the Texas Division of Emergency Management: 

This system is likely to slow down once it reaches the coast, increasing the threat of a prolonged period of heavy rainfall and flooding across portions of Texas and Louisiana into early next week. Harvey could also produce storm surge and tropical storm or hurricane force winds along portions of the Texas coast later this week, and Tropical Storm or Hurricane Watches could be required later today for portions of the coast of northeastern Mexico, Texas, and southwestern Louisiana. Interests in these areas should monitor the progress of this system and refer to products issued by your local National Weather Service office for more information. 

The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) advises all operators under the RRC’s jurisdiction in areas of potential impact to take the following actions: 

• Monitor local, state and national weather reports for updates on potential severe weather impacts, including the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center and Texas Division of Emergency Management;
• Heed all watches, warnings, and orders issued by local emergency officials;
• Secure all personnel, equipment, and facilities to prevent injury or damage; and,
• Monitor operations for potential impacts, as safety permits. 

In the event of a leak or spill, operators are reminded RRC rules require: 

• Immediate notification to the RRC of a leak or spill into water;
• Containment of a leak or spill; and,
• Clean up and remediation of any area impacted by a leak or spill. 

The RRC maintains a 24-hour, toll free emergency line; 844-773-0305 to report leaks or spills.