HOUSTON – A viewer reached out to 2 Helps You about a major water leak in the Westchase area and this was no small drip.
Water was gushing along Westheimer Road behind the Kohl’s department store, raising concerns for nearby drivers, businesses, and residents.
Although 311 initially classified the leak as a private property issue, the volume of water and freezing temperatures turned it into a public safety concern.
KPRC 2 reporter Re’Chelle Turner spent the day pushing for answers, making calls and sending emails to city officials.
She contacted District F Council Member Tiffany Thomas and the Mayor’s Office, explaining that temperatures were expected to dip into the 30s — conditions that could cause the flowing water to freeze and create even bigger problems.
“As you can see, there’s thousands of gallons of water just kind of going down the drain here,” said Dave Key, who first contacted 2 Helps You. “It’s a concern because we’ve got a water issue in the state and in the city.”
Key says the water has been pouring out for more than a week.
“I called 311, and they said it had already been reported — even by police,” Key said. “They came back out about a week ago, but I was told they couldn’t repair it because they didn’t have the parts, so the water just kept flowing.”
According to 311 records, nine service requests related to water leaks or water main valves were submitted between January 18 and January 26. Online records show those cases were later closed, with the city determining the issue was on private property and not the responsibility of the City of Houston.
Turner contacted Kohl’s, where a store employee confirmed management is aware of the problem. The employee also said portable restrooms have been placed in front of the store for customers.
Just before 3 p.m., KPRC 2 cameras captured Houston Public Works crews on scene taking photos, assessing the leak, and draining water from a nearby fire hydrant. Turner attempted to speak with a worker, but he was unable to provide details.
City data released last week shows Houston currently has 521 active water leaks. Over the past 30 days, repairs have averaged 18 days, with only 57% fixed within a week — far below the city’s goal of 90%. Officials say extended freezing temperatures are contributing to leaks on both public and private sides of water meters.
Council Member Tiffany Thomas, who represents the Westchase area, says her office is now looking into the situation. In a statement, she said in part:
“Water leaks are one of the top issues the District F office receives on a weekly basis. This is not a new location and unfortunately with the leak on private side of the property, my office is unable to escalate any resolution. It also underscores how investing in infrastructure is not just a city priority but for those who operate private businesses as well. I want to encourage all residents who are experiencing water leaks to call 311 and allow HPW to investigate.”
During Turner’s live report, a plumbing crew arrived and began assessing the problem.
The city confirms the leak is tied to a private business, but says a plumbing crew is scheduled to make repairs Tuesday night. Turner has also reached out to Kohl’s corporate office for comment and is waiting to hear back.
If you’re experiencing a similar issue in your neighborhood, report it to 311 and contact your city council member.