Whataburger beings to reopen locations, bringing sign of normalcy to hurricane-ravaged Texas Coast

A Houston Whataburger, at 4545 Kingwood Dr., has been the subject of viral photos on social media that show the building submerged in water. A Houston Whataburger, at 4545 Kingwood Dr., has been the subject of viral photos on social media that show the building submerged in water. Photo: Courtesy, Whataburger Photo: Courtesy, Whataburger Image 1 of / 54 Caption Close Whataburger beings to reopen locations, bringing sign of normalcy to hurricane-ravaged Texas Coast 1 / 54 Back to Gallery

Texas favorite Whataburger is known for being available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But it had to shutter stories as Harvey left its path of destruction across the state.

The rare occasion of lights off at the always-open store reflected the calamity approaching and disastrous situation to follow.

As the storm passed though, a prominent "W," illuminated again, became a small sign of normalcy for those on the Coast beginning to rebuild their lives.

Whataburger spokeswoman Amanda Kennedy said the Portland location, about a 20-minute drive away from Rockport, which was in the direct path of the Category 4 storm and where one person died, was the closest available location to the town.

RELATED: S.A.'s 'I love tacos so much' wall now says 'I love Houston so much,' for charity

Kennedy said the restaurant is operating on a drive-thru only basis, offering a limited menu.

The 24-hour menu includes burgers, fries and drinks. For breakfast, from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m., customers can order taquitos, Breakfast on a Bun and drinks.

A locator on the Whataburger website is the best way to get updates on restaurant status, the company said.

While the Portland location is welcoming hungry customers, many remained closed including those in Aransas Pass, three in Corpus Christi, Galveston, Refugio, Beaumont and all 56 in Houston, according to the locator.

A Houston Whataburger, at 4545 Kingwood Dr., has been the subject of viral photos on social media that show the building submerged in water.

The San Antonio-based company announced a $1 million donation to assist employees impacted by the storm to provide things like clothing, food and help with medical bills. They have also donated $150,00 to the Red Cross and $500,000 to Texas food banks, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Whataburger has also set up support centers in Corpus Christi and Houston.

"To all our Family Members and neighbors who were impacted by this storm's devastation, we stand with you. The path to recovering and rebuilding is long, but we're here for you and we'll get through this together," Whataburger Chairman Tom Dobson said in a news release.

mmendoza@mysa.com

Twitter: @MaddySkye