At a news conference at noon on Monday, the announcement was made that residents living on Galveston's west end are welcome to inspect their homes, but they must leave by 6pm. Water, sewer, natural gas, and electric services have not been restored to areas west of 103rd street, not behind the seawall, therefore sanitary living conditions are not available at this time. There is no look and leave policy for other Galveston residents.
Beginning Wednesday, September 24, 2008, 6:00 a.m. all residents will be able to re-enter Galveston Island. You must show photo identification that verifies your Galveston address or place of business at all manned checkpoints. The City of Galveston will distribute advisories as returning residents and business owners enter the island.
Areas Located Behind the Seawall East of 103rd Street/Cove View Lane: All residents and business owners may re-enter the City of Galveston, assess the damage to their property, and determine if they wish to remain in the city. Very limited water, sewer, natural gas, and electric services have been restored to areas behind the Seawall.
Current Conditions in Galveston
- No medical facilities are available
- Limited water, sewer, electricity, or natural gas service
- A boil water notice remains in effect until further notice
- Mandated water conservation program in effect island-wide
- Limited retail services available including fuel, food, water, auto, pharmacies, etc.
- Curfew strictly enforced: 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Violators subject to $2,000 fine.
- Limited cell phone coverage
- The south side of the Seawall, all beaches, and the water of the Gulf of Mexico remain closed until further notice
Supplies You Will Need to Bring
- Bottled Water
- Flashlights & Batteries
- First Aid Kit
- Hand Tools
- Hand Sanitizer
- Heavy Duty Garbage Bags
- Camera
- Notepad & Pens
- Bug Repellant
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Gloves
- Face Masks
- Boots
- Sunscreen
- Vehicle Fuel Additives
- Tire Repair -- Tools, Fix-A-Flat, Spare Tire, Jack
Traffic Safety:
- Watch for Debris
- Drive Cautiously -- Obey All Speed Limits
- Be Conscientious of Other Vehicles, Bicyclists, and Pedestrians
- Treat All Intersections as a Four-Way Stop
- Street Signs May or May Not Be Present so Remain Alert When Driving
Personal Safety:
- Do Not Put Yourself in a Hazardous Situation
- Do Not Enter Unsafe Buildings
- Exercise Common Sense and Caution When Entering Structures