Update on ITC Deer Park Incident

The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) continues to work with response partners to monitor events related the Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) fire incident in the City of Deer Park. Harris County remains focused on the health and safety of the entire community.

According to Harris County Public Health (HCPH), the health risk potential remains low for the general public; however, monitoring for longer-term impacts continues. HCPH recommends that if you do not have a healthcare provider, you can find a local health center at https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/, or you can call the Harris Health System’s ‘Ask My Nurse’ helpline – (713) 634-1110 between 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. – to help answer basic health questions.

The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office continues their investigation. On site, ITC employee interviews are being conducted and investigators are awaiting clearance for entry into tank farm.

Harris County Pollution Control Services (HCPCS) is collecting surface soil and water quality samples in affected areas. HCPCS continues to review surface water data accumulated from all agencies involved. Harris County contractor (Turnstone) will conduct air monitoring throughout the cleanup process. HCPCS is also working with Harris County Precinct 2 to evaluate and develop a timeline to reopen area parks.

ITC reports that crews continue to monitor air quality by land and air to report any elevated VOCs around the industrial area near the incident site. Fire suppression activities continue to prevent re-ignition and suppress vapors.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) continue to direct the public to their new interactive map on the TCEQ’s website for updates on the ITC response.

The U.S. Coast Guard is continuing operations in the impacted areas, via active booming and skimming. The Houston Ship Channel is open for daylight vessel traffic only.

Closures

Harris County Precinct 2 confirmed the following parks remain closed as a precaution:

  • Bay Area Park in Houston
  • Clear Lake Park in Seabrook
  • Sylvan Beach Park in La Porte
  • Juan Seguin in La Porte
  • Rio Villa Nature Trail in Houston
  • Meadowbrook Park in Channelview
  • River Terrace Park in Channelview
  • Michael Moncrief Park in Channelview

The La Porte Office of Emergency Management confirmed Seabreeze Park and Klein Retreat in La Porte remain closed until further notice.

The Lynchburg Ferry remains closed to the public until further notice.

The Washburn Tunnel will remain closed for maintenance until April 8.

The San Jacinto Museum has cancelled the 2019 San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle Reenactment scheduled for April 13.

What you should do:

  • Listen to local officials for updates on the situation and for any actions you may need to take.
  • Monitor local weather forecasts: National Weather Service
  • If you do not feel well, contact your healthcare provider, or, if more serious, call 9-1-1.

Where you can learn more: