Severe Storms in Houston Cause Widespread Damage and Power Outages

Severe thunderstorms have struck southeastern Texas once again, bringing significant damage and disruption to Houston. The storms, packing hurricane-force winds, have resulted in at least four fatalities and extensive damage across the city.

Impact on Houston

The powerful storms have caused widespread power outages, with nearly 1 million homes and businesses affected. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo warned that some areas could be without power for weeks.

The storms also shattered windows on downtown high-rises and flipped vehicles. Houston Mayor John Whitmire confirmed that at least four people had died, with possibly a fifth fatality under investigation.

“It was fierce, it was intense, and it was quick. Most Houstonians didn’t have time to place themselves out of harm’s way,” Whitmire said at a news conference.

Ongoing Efforts and Damage Assessment

Crews are working around the clock to assess and repair the damage. With multiple transmission towers down, Hidalgo stressed the need for patience. Thousands of utility workers are already on the ground, with power restored to about 200,000 customers so far. However, 100,000 customers in Louisiana remain without electricity.

“We are going to have to talk about this disaster in weeks, not days,” Hidalgo said.

Destruction and Recovery

The storms brought much of Houston to a halt. Streets are covered with fallen trees, debris, and shattered glass. School districts across the Houston area canceled classes for more than 400,000 students, and government offices were closed.

Officials have urged residents to avoid downtown and stay off the roads, many of which are flooded or blocked by downed power lines and malfunctioning traffic lights.

To deter looting, Whitmire announced that police presence has been increased, including 50 state troopers dispatched to the area. Two of the storm-related deaths were caused by falling trees, and another occurred when a crane was blown over by the winds.

Broader Regional Impact

The severe weather’s impact extended beyond Houston. Emergency officials in neighboring Montgomery County described the damage to transmission lines as “catastrophic.”

Gulf Coast states are bracing for more severe weather, with the National Weather Service warning of potential tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds. Flood watches and warnings remain in effect for Houston and surrounding areas.

Meteorologist Jeff Evans of the National Weather Service indicated that most of the damage was due to straight-line winds, which may have reached speeds of up to 100 mph. A suspected tornado in Convent, Louisiana, caused additional damage.

Continued Risks and Previous Storms

Houston experienced another round of severe storms earlier in May, leading to numerous high-water rescues. The National Weather Service office for New Orleans and Baton Rouge has issued a flash flood warning through Saturday due to ongoing heavy rainfall.

In summary, the recent storms have left Houston and its neighboring areas dealing with extensive damage, power outages, and tragic loss of life. Recovery efforts are in full swing, but the complete recovery will take time.