Four people have been found dead after a catastrophic storm hit Texas, that brought powerful winds that blew off windows, knocked down trees and left almost a million homes and businesses without power.
The second storm to hit Houston this month, struck Southeastern Texas last Thursday. The deadly storm brought wind gusts of up to 100 mph. Officials have spoken out, warning residents to stay clear of roads to ensure safety as traffic lights were expected to be out for the night.
Statements from Officials
Houston Mayor John Whitmire spoke out to reporters Thursday night stating that “We have a storm with 100 mph winds, the equivalent of Hurricane Ike, causing considerable damage downtown.”
Four people had been found dead due to this severe weather, at least two were caused by fallen tree, Houston Fire Chief had confirmed to reporters. Also stating that another was caused by a “crane that was blown over by the wind.” No information about the fourth death was provided.
Weather Warnings
Flash flood and severe thunderstorm warning are in full effect issued by the The National Weather Service office in Houston. They have also warned tornadoes are a possibility as the severe weather continues.
Residents have pulled together to help remove fallen treetops from the roofs of cars in the aftermath of the severe thunderstorm. Workers have been seen cleaning up broken glass inside a damaged restaurant in downtown Houston.
Whitmire has expressed to reporters that agencies will be working efficiently to clear any debris and will make a conscious effort to ensure conditions are safer.
Effects on Residents
Houston Independent School District has cancelled classes across all of its 274 campuses as residents are urged to stay home. More than 400,000 students have been affected, urged to stay at home.
Transmission lines have been described as catastrophic as the problems have extended to city suburbs. Emergency officials have warned that power could be impacted for several days.
Collateral Damage
At Minute Maid Park, the home of Houston Astros, the retractable roof was closed due to the storm. Reports show the wind was so intense it blew rain into the stadium.
Hundreds of windows have been shattered, causing damage to downtown hotels and office buildings. The state has sent officers from the Department of Public Safety to secure the area.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has issued a statement to the press stating that the county’s precinct and engineers will work overnight to clear debris and try to restore power.
