Twelve Barges Break Free in Houston Ship Channel

Flood levels and record setting water current coming from the San Jacinto River caused a closure of the Houston Ship Channel after 12 barges broke free on Sunday.

The waterway north of the I-10 bridge on the San Jacinto up to Lake Houston was restricted after the barges broke free from the Kirby Fleeting Area, which is immediately south of the I-10 bridge where it crosses the San Jacinto River. 

The water current was measured at 7.9 knots and is preventing attempts to return the barges. Kirby Inland Marine has secured 10 of the barges and is working to secure five others.

No pollution or injuries have been reported.