Tomball Gas Leak Prompts Shelter-in-Place, School Lockdown
A major gas leak in Tomball, Texas, prompted a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and a temporary lockdown of Wildwood Elementary School on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The leak was successfully contained and the shelter-in-place order was lifted by 2:45 p.m. Local time.
Incident Details
The Tomball Police Department reported that a main gas line was struck near the intersection of Westlake Run Boulevard and Shaw Road according to local officials. The damage was caused by a contractor not affiliated with CenterPoint Energy, the local gas provider.
Emergency Response and Shelter-in-Place
As a precautionary measure, Wildwood Elementary School and surrounding daycare centers were placed under a shelter-in-place order. Parents were permitted to pick up their children, but recess was canceled, and students were kept indoors as reported by KHOU 11. Residents in the affected neighborhood were advised to shelter in place, meaning they should go indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid the area.
Gas Service Restoration
CenterPoint Energy crews quickly responded to the scene and successfully shut off the gas service to the damaged line by 2:15 p.m. The leak was contained shortly after, and repairs commenced. No customers experienced a disruption in natural gas service.
Safety Reminders
CenterPoint Energy emphasized the importance of calling 811 at least 48 hours before any digging activity to allow for the marking of underground utilities. This helps prevent accidental damage and ensures the safety of workers and the public. If anyone smells gas, they are instructed to leave the area immediately, alert others, and contact CenterPoint at 713-659-2111 or 888-752-8036.
Agencies Involved
Several agencies collaborated during the emergency response, including the Tomball Fire Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and CenterPoint Energy as outlined by local news sources.