Galveston issues voluntary evacuation notice for areas not protected by seawall

GALVESTON, Texas (July 6, 2024) - Galveston Emergency Management Officials have issued an order authorizing a voluntary evacuation of the island's west end.

While officials feel the chances of tides above five feet are currently very remote, tides above that level could prevent travel on major roads and make it difficult for the city to respond to emergencies.

City Manager Brian Maxwell notes that predictions for the track of Beryl have not changed. However, during the latest call with the National Weather Service it was pointed out the size of Beryl has expanded slightly which could result in slightly higher tides.

As a result, the island's west end is currently under a storm surge warning issued by the National Weather Service.

"Mayor Brown signed the order out of an abundance of caution," said Maxwell.

The order is effective beginning at 10 a.m. on July 7th and is for residents and visitors west of 103rd Street not protected by Galveston's Seawall.

Emergency management officials ask that residents realize if they decide to stay in a low-lying area, they may not be able to safely leave for several hours, and emergency services may not be available while tides remain elevated.

Current predictions from the NWS have tides rising late in the day Sunday with peak tides on Monday morning around sunrise. After that time is expected the surge will gradually recede during the day Monday. Any excessive rain which is possible with Beryl could compound flooding.

Galveston's Emergency Operations Center is open closely monitoring Beryl. They will remain open around the clock until any Beryl is no longer a threat. The public can contact the EOC at 409-765-3710.

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