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Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 8 to March 12 | Learn Life Saving Tips & How to Stay Connected During an Emergency

The National Weather Service is celebrating Severe Weather Awareness Week for Southeast Texas from today, March 8 through Friday, March 12. Each day is focused on a specific safety category to educate the community on protecting life and property.

MCTX officials are encouraging residents and businesses to use this week to review your safety plans and prepare for the upcoming season. Top severe weather events for the region that’s selected for this awareness week includes:

DAY 1:  Heat Safety

Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in most years. As the region is warming up, remember to stay hydrated; take proper precautions like wearing sun screen, sun glasses and light clothing; never leave people or pets in a closed car; avoid strenuous activities and check on family members and neighbors during extreme heat.

DAY 2:  Thunderstorm Safety

Severe thunderstorms are officially defined as storms that are capable of producing hail that is an inch or larger or wind gusts over 58 mph. Hail this size can damage property such as plants, roofs and vehicles. Wind this strong is able to break off large branches, knock over trees or cause structural damage to trees. Check for watches or warnings for your area and go to a secure location and use caution if driving.

DAY 3:  Tornado Safety

Of all the many dangerous weather hazards, tornadoes are one of the most powerful and destructive. If there are tornado warnings issued for your area, shelter immediately, and move to an interior room or bathroom or closet on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows and cover your head to protect yourself from flying debris.

DAY 4:  Flood Safety

Flooding is yet another major weather hazard in our region as quick rain and flash flooding is common. During a flood, water levels and the rate at which the water is flowing can quickly change. Get to higher ground; do not cross barricaded streets; and remember to always, “Turn Around, Don’t Drive” if there is water on roads. It only takes six inches of water to knock you off your feet.

DAY 5:  Beach Safety 

When you plan for a beach trip, remember to check the surf zone forecast, take proper heat safety precautions like wearing sun screen, know how to escape a rip current, know where the life ring or the floating devices are located and talk to a life guard/beach patrol if possible. The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) recommends, to swim with one or more buddies when possible and have at least one person on shore with a cell phone to watch the group and call for help if needed.

For more details, visit www.weather.gov/safety.

Severe Awareness Week

In addition to the safety tips, it is important to understand some of the key weather terminologies used in emergency alerts like three listed below:

ADVISORY:  An Advisory includes details on upcoming potential weather events that could escalate.

WATCH:  A Watch means weather event is possible; Be Prepared.

WARNING:  A Warning means weather event is happening; Take Action.

While it is necessary to be aware of preparation tips and alert terminologies, it is also equally important to learn where to find accurate information during an emergency. Missouri City has several communication tools that residents, businesses and stakeholders can get vital information at all times, including some dedicated outlets for emergency incidents.

Follow us on the official City communication outlets below to stay connected:

For more information about Missouri City, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter and Instagram—@MissouriCityTX, and watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).

City to Offer Debris Pick Up in MCTX Subdivisions in Harris County & Restricted Access Neighborhoods Citywide

The City is contracting with WCA Waste Corp. to establish debris pick up for residents in Harris County and residents citywide who live in restricted access communities. To ensure pick up, residents must place their winter storm debris at the curb by 7 a.m. on the following days:

  • Saturday, March 6
  • Saturday, March 13
  • Saturday, March 20
  • Saturday, March 27

For details on what items are considered debris and to see if your neighborhood is part of the new WCA debris service contract, please call their customer service at 281.403.5800.

WCA back loader

Missouri City citizens who are in non-restricted Fort Bend County neighborhoods, must schedule debris pick up through the County by calling 281.238.3499 or emailing WinterDebris@fortbendcountytx.gov. For additional details, Click Here.

For more information about Missouri City, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter and Instagram—@MissouriCityTX, and watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).

Boil Water Notice Lifted for All 10 Missouri City MUDs

As of 2:30 p.m. today, Feb. 23, 2021 all 10 Boil Water Notices in Missouri City have been rescinded (lifted) including the 7 managed by Quail Valley Utility District.

While it is safe to use these public water systems, it is highly recommended that residents in these recently impacted Boil Water Notice areas properly prepare in resuming the use of this water.

  • All faucets should be flushed for at least several minutes while taking care not to overflow sinks or create any water damage.
  • Ice maker trays should be emptied and at least one cycle of ice ran and then again discarded.
  • At least one cycle on a washing machine could be ran to flush out any iron or manganese particles before washing clothes.
  • At least one cycle on a dishwasher could be ran before washing dishes.

These are only some basic guidelines and are not all inclusive of every situation that all residents will encounter. Some residents may need to repeat these steps if they experience prolonged water quality issues like color, taste, and odor concerns.

For additional details and guidance, please contact your MUD operations company. See contact details here https://bit.ly/3bi68yu

FAQ: Warming Center, Water Notices, Closures, Grocery Stores, Gas Stations, Price Gouging, Solid Waste Service & More

City officials and staff has received several inquiries regarding warming centers, water notices, open gas stations or food establishments, office closures, solid waste service, price gouging and more. To address these concerns, staff compiled this list of frequently asked questions:

Are there any warming centers in the area?

Yes, the City opened a warming center at the Recreation & Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr. For hours and other details, Click Here.

Does the MCTX warming center need any donations?

Thanks to all residents and partners who donated already; however, there is no additional need for donations at this time.

What areas are currently under a boil water notice?

Please see current MUDs with boil water notice below:

  • Notice for Palmer Plantation 1
  • Notice for Palmer Plantation 2
  • Notice for Thunderbird Utility District System 1
  • Notice for Harris County WCID-Fondren Road
  • Fort Bend MUD #49
  • Fort Bend MUD # 26
  • Fort Bend County WCID No. 2 (rescinded as of 2.21.21)
  • Harris County MUD No. 122 (rescinded as of 2.21.21)
  • Quail Valley Utility District
  • Southwest Harris County MUD No. 1

For more details, Click Here.

What are some water safety tips? 

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that families with boil water notice should follow:

  • Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, and to prepare and cook food.
  • If bottled water is not available, bring water to a full rolling boil for 1 minute, then allow it to cool before use.
  • Do not use water from any appliance connected to your water line, such as ice and water from a refrigerator.
  • If you formula feed your child, provide ready-to-use formula, if available.
  • In many situations, you can use tap water and soap to wash your hands. Follow the guidance from your local public health officials.
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • It is safe to wash clothes as usual.
  • Pets can get sick by some of the same germs as people or spread germs to people. Provide bottled or boiled water after it has been cooled for pets to use.
  • You can use tap water for household plants and gardens.

When will the boil water notice be lifted? 

Boil Water Notice events typically run a course of at least five to seven days on average. So the current notices will be in place throughout the weekend.

Do residents still need to conserve water and energy?

Yes, even though power is back in most areas, it is essential to conserve energy as the power grid is fragile and if consumption is too high, there could be more outages.

Are there any road closures?

As of Feb. 18, 6 p.m. the City has no road closures.

What are the symptoms for carbon monoxide poisoning?

Some symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to watch for are:

  • Dull headache
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Loss of consciousness

Do we have a water distribution event?

Not at this time.

Are City offices open?

No, all non-essential offices are closed on Feb. 19 and will resume normal operations on Feb. 22. This includes:

  • City Hall Front Lobby, 1522 Texas Pkwy.
  • Inspections & Permits, 1522 Texas Pkwy.
  • Municipal Court, 3845 Cartwright Rd.
  • Recreation & Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr.

Is the Quail Valley Golf Course & City Centre open?

Beginning Friday, Feb. 19, the Grille and the Golf Shop will have normal hours beginning; however, the golf courses will only open as weather permits.

What gas stations are open in the area?

Below are some of the gas stations that are open as of Feb. 18:

  • All Gas Stations are open on FM 1092 from Ave E, except Shell at Cartwright
  • Exxon 13920 Beltway 8 – open, but no gas
  • Chevron 13915 Beltway 8 – closed and no gas
  • All except the following has gas on Texas Parkway
    • Chevron at Texas Parkway – open, but no gas
    • Phillips 66, 802 Texas Parkway – open, but no gas

What food establishments are open?

To see a list of food establishments that are open as of Feb. 18, click this link: Open Food Establishments

What groceries are open?

Mostly all MCTX grocery stores are open but with adjusted hours, supply limits and some with no cold/freezer items due to power outages.

  • H-E-B | 4724 Hwy. 6 & H-E-B | 8900 Hwy. 6
    • Stores are open regular hours; limits still in place for high demand items
  • Harvest Market | 4603 Sienna Pkwy.
    • Open regular hours 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Walmart | 5501 Hwy. 6
    • Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Fiesta Mart, LLC | 1530 Independence Blvd.
  • Kroger | 6200 Hwy. 6
  • Kroger | 10250 Hwy. 6
  • Aldi | 6016 Sienna Ranch Rd.

Are schools closed?

Fort Bend ISD and Houston ISD campuses and facilities will be closed on Friday, Feb. 19.

Are COVID-19 vaccination sites open?

Fort Bend County COVID-19 vaccination sites will be open from noon to 6 p.m. on Feb. 19 and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Feb. 20.

When will solid waste service resume?  

The Municipal Solid Waste provider WCA Waste Corp. has resumed services Thursday, Feb. 18. Residents are encouraged to place containers out by 7 a.m. on their scheduled pickup days. For additional updates, please call their customer service at 281.403.5800.

Is METRO service back?

METRO Houston resumed limited essential trips on Feb. 18. For more details, call 713.739.3823.

What are some tips to handle burst water pipes? Pipe Burst Tips

Does City have a list of plumbers? 

No, but below are some plumbers who are registered with the City:

Where can residents report price gouging? 

Fort Bend residents may report to 832.471.1600 and Harris County residents may text complaints to 346.354.7459.

Is the state or other local agencies collecting data on damages related to this weather incident?

Yes, residents may submit damages to the state or to their respective counties. See links below:

State of Texas | Fort Bend County | Harris County

Are there any assistance from FEMA currently available. 

As of Feb. 20, 2021, there are no individual assistance from Federal Emergency Management Agency in place for this winter event. However, it may be available later and all official information regarding FEMA assistance will be shared by the official local agencies.

FEMA is also warning citizens to be aware of scams and fraudulent claims; please do not share/submit vital information to anyone claiming it is for FEMA assistance.

Is there a list of resources that could assist residents during recovery?

Please list of potential resources provided by the Greater Houston Builders Association:

For more information about Missouri City, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter and Instagram—@MissouriCityTX, and watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).

Updated: 2.22.21 4 p.m. | All new updates are marked in italics. 

Missouri City to Open Warming Center Tonight at 7 p.m. in the Recreation & Tennis Center

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Missouri City is partnering with Fort Bend County to open a warming center in the Recreation & Tennis Center starting tonight (Thursday, Feb. 17) at 7:00 p.m. through Saturday, Feb. 20 at noon.

The Recreation & Tennis Center is located at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., and the warming center at the City facility will serve as an essential resource for residents who are without power due to rolling outages.

“City Councilmembers and staff worked closely with Fort Bend County Judge KP George, County officials and State Rep. Ron Reynolds to identify this emergency shelter as we are very concerned about citizens suffering from the dangerously low temperatures our area is experiencing during this weather crisis that has resulted in icy road conditions, power outages and water shortages,” said Mayor Robin Elackatt. “The safety of our residents is the number one priority and we are doing everything we can to protect and serve them.”

The warming center will be staffed by registered nurses, who will screen and sign-in visitors. Individuals who utilize the center will be required to log in and out of the facility and may not come and go; there will be no exceptions. Missouri City police officers will be on-site for security purposes.

The center will have capacity for 300 people and admission will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. There will be 50 spaces reserved for seniors and the elderly—people who are 65 and older.

Guidelines for the center will be as follows:

  • Visitors will be required to follow COVID-19 guidelines, including wearing face coverings and
    social distancing.
  • No pets, with the exception of service animals, will be allowed on-site. Individuals who bring services animals must have a kennel.
  • Food and beverages will not be provided, but visitors may bring their own.
  • Per City ordinance, no weapons will be allowed on-site.

Limited seating will be available and citizens should bring their own blankets and folding chairs. For more information, individuals may call 281.403.8500.

The two main platforms used by City staff to share real-time information during emergencies are the MCTX Emergency Management website, www.MissouriCityReady.com and the MCTX Twitter account, Twitter.com/MissouriCityEM.

For more updates, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter and Instagram—@MissouriCityTX, and watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).

Municipal Solid Waste to resume tomorrow

Solid Waste Update: Services will resume tomorrow (Thursday, Feb. 18) for residents who participate in the City’s Municipal Solid Waste Program. WCA is expecting some delays as there may be higher than normal volumes of trash/recyclables being placed at the curb due to suspension of pickups earlier this week.

The provider will continue to monitor weather conditions and may have later rollouts based on the forecast. For more information, call 281.403.5800.