Port Arthur mayor, Derrick Freeman, addressed issues related to tropical depression Harvey that will make landfall on the Texas Gulf coast this weekend on his Facebook page:

“Please be advised, tropical depression #Harvey is in the Gulf of Mexico. It is expected to make landfall on the Texas coast mid-day Friday as a category one hurricane. While we do not expect much storm surge, we are anticipating 12-15 inches of rain, causing flooding across the city. Please gas up your vehicle and stock up on water, batteries, and non-perishables. Don’t forget to fill family prescriptions, and please check on your elderly neighbors to see if they need assistance.

The levee break is currently being reinforced, and by Friday will have the strength to handle a 12+ foot storm surge (we may expect 3+ foot storm surge). Drainage District 7, the Army Corp of Engineers, Jefferson County and the city of Port Arthur are working to reinforce the levee with even more protection before the hurricane makes landfall.

In the morning, we will be calling for a voluntary evacuation due to mild storm surge and heavy rains crossing Highway 87. We will also have a staging area where water and other resources will be available for those who decide to stay in Sabine Pass. Use your own judgment, but please be cautious and stay off the roads.

Tomorrow (Thursday) 8/24/17 at 2pm we will be holding a press conference on the 5th floor of City Hall. We will have staff and our community partners present to answer questions. If you haven’t had a chance to sign up for our emergency alerts, you can do so at www.thestan.com.”