Gas Leak Closes US 281 in Marble Falls; Floods Spur Boil Water Notice

Marble Falls officials shut both north- and southbound lanes of U.S. 281 between FM 1431 and Broadway on 16 July after a major natural-gas leak. Barricades were erected while Marble Falls Fire Rescue, the city’s police department and Atmos Energy crews worked to locate and repair the rupture, and authorities warned that the closure could last for an extended period. Drivers were asked to follow posted detours and avoid the area until repairs are completed. The gas incident arrived as the Central Texas town grappled with another infrastructure problem: a boil-water notice issued after recent flooding compromised the municipal drinking-water system. Residents were instructed to bring water to a rolling boil for at least two minutes before consumption or food preparation, with no timeline yet given for when normal service will resume. City officials said no injuries had been reported from either event, but urged the public to heed safety guidance while crews work to stabilize the gas line and restore water quality. Further updates will be provided as assessments continue.