Sinkhole Shuts Down All Outbound Lanes of I-10 Near Houston

Texas transportation officials report a "pavement issue" has forced the closure of the major highway.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sinkhole has forced the closure of all outbound lanes of Interstate 10 just outside the 610 Loop in Houston. Texas Department of Transportation officials said a "pavement issue" caused the shutdown near the Normandy Street exit, and drivers should expect delays and seek alternate routes if possible.

Why it matters

I-10 is a major thoroughfare through Houston, and the closure of all outbound lanes will significantly impact traffic and commutes in the area. Sinkholes can pose serious safety risks and require extensive repairs, so this incident highlights the need for infrastructure maintenance and monitoring.

The details

According to officials, a water leak under the freeway caused the sinkhole to form on the left shoulder. The issue was first reported around 3:30 p.m., and it's unclear how long the repairs will take. Drivers are advised to exit I-10 at or before Federal Road and use surface streets to reach their destinations.

  • The sinkhole issue was first reported around 3:30 p.m. on February 4, 2026.

The players

Texas Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for maintaining and repairing Texas' transportation infrastructure, including highways like I-10.

Harris County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that reported the water leak under the freeway as the cause of the sinkhole.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

It's unclear how long the repairs to fix the sinkhole and reopen the outbound lanes of I-10 will take.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of proactive infrastructure maintenance and monitoring to prevent dangerous situations like sinkholes from occurring on major highways. Drivers in the Houston area should plan for delays and seek alternate routes until the repairs are completed.