HOUSTON \u2013 A strong smell of natural gas reported across parts of the Houston area Thursday afternoon led to multiple emergency responses, including evacuations at a Lone Star College campus, according to officials.<\/p>\n
Authorities in Tomball, Channelview, and northwest Harris County all acknowledged reports from residents describing a strong gas odor lingering in the air.<\/p>\n
At this time, officials have not announced the exact source of the odor or whether there is any ongoing danger to the public. Investigations remain ongoing.<\/p>\n
Residents who smell natural gas are encouraged to avoid open flames, leave the area if necessary, and report concerns to local authorities or CenterPoint Energy.<\/p>\n
KPRC 2 has contacted CenterPoint Energy for more information on the situation.<\/p>\n
Reports out of Tomball<\/p>\n
According to the Tomball Fire Department, the smell may be connected to a reported \u201crelease\u201d in the Channelview area involving CenterPoint Energy infrastructure.<\/p>\n
A Tomball emergency official told KPRC 2 that dispatch scanners were \u201cblowing up\u201d with calls from concerned residents reporting the smell of natural gas. <\/p>\n
Officials said the information they received indicated the odor may have been drifting from the Interstate 45 corridor.<\/p>\n
Reports of Channelview connection<\/p>\n
In east Harris County, the Channelview Fire Department confirmed it was actively investigating the situation.<\/p>\n
Lone Star College Evacuation<\/p>\n
The smell also prompted emergency action at Lone Star College-Houston North Fallbrook campus.<\/p>\n
In a Facebook post, the Lone Star College Police Department instructed people on campus to evacuate immediately.<\/p>\n