Port Arthur City Spokesperson Risa Carpenter told 12News the boil water advisory was needed after water pressure dropped. She said ruptured lines, mostly at homes and businesses in the city, are the cause of the low water pressure.
Shortly after the advisory was issued, Kristyn Cathey, spokesperson for the school district, issued the following statement:
"Due to the City's water pressure issues, the District, like the city, is under a boil water notice. After discussion with City officials, the District has made the decision that children can be picked up from school, otherwise, we will make provisions for the students that must remain on campus. We are working with the Shipping and Receiving department to deliver bottled water to all campuses and our cafeteria workers are taking the necessary steps to ensure our food preparation is not inhibited by the low water pressure. Principals and staff are on hand to assist parents with the pick up the process. We will continue to monitor this situation and update the community as time allows. Thank you for your support of Port Arthur Independent School District."
Other communities in Southeast Texas have reported issues with water service caused by the below-freezing temperature.
