HOUSTON – The deadly storm that swept through Houston in late May, also known as a derecho, has long passed, but the evidence of the storm’s destruction remains in many areas.
The City of Houston’s Department of Solid Waste Management has been working seven days a week to clear storm debris from neighborhoods across the city over the past few weeks.
While the DSWM has already cleared around 1.5 million cubic yards of debris (enough to fill 50% of NRG Stadium) they say there’s still around 3 million yards of debris that needs to be cleared.
On Monday, July 8th, city contractors plan to start the second and final phase of debris collection, which they expect to last for 30 days.
If you or someone you know still has storm debris sitting around, it’s important to make sure you prepare it correctly, otherwise the city might not pick it up.
In particular, the DSWM recommends separating storm debris from your bulk waste when you put it on the curb.
Additionally, any tree trunks need to be cut up so that they’re 2-3 feet or less in diameter and 3 feet or less in length.
Debris piles also need to be placed within 10 feet of private property lines, since pickup crews can’t go past that point.
After pickup, the debris will be taken to one of four temporary collection sites for “reduction.” In other words, the debris is processed through woodchippers and grinders, with onsite personnel supervising to ensure safety.
Finally, personnel water the debris sites after the reducing process is finished to prevent fires or excessive amounts of dust from spreading through the neighborhood.
While it might be tempting to kick back and relax during the holiday weekend, it might also be just the right time to start preparing your storm debris for pickup, so you’re not caught by surprise when the deadline passes.
Even if you don’t have your own debris to pick up, City of Houston officials encourage you to report any storm debris to the 3-1-1 call center or online at Houstontx.gov/311.