TL/DR –
A storm system wreaked havoc in Houston, Texas, causing at least four deaths, massive power outages, and life-threatening flooding. The intense conditions resulted in over one million homes and businesses across Texas and Louisiana losing power, and has led to numerous damage reports across the city. The storm, which brought hurricane-force winds and heavy rains, is part of a wider pattern of extreme weather that is becoming more frequent due to human-caused climate change.
Houston Struck by Deadly Storms: Four Dead and Power Outages Across the South
Houston was hit by a deadly storm system, causing at least four fatalities and widespread power outages. The city suffered extreme weather conditions, which included hurricane-force winds and torrential rains. The resulting flooding and fallen trees caused significant damage and power outages throughout parts of the South.
Storm Aftermath and Future Warnings
Structural damages were seen throughout Houston, including skyscraper windows shattered and part of a nightclub collapsing. Non-essential workers were advised to stay home due to the unsafe conditions. Power outages affected nearly 1 million homes and businesses in Texas, and another 100,000 in Louisiana. The extreme amounts of rain, which is becoming more frequent, indicates increasing climate change.
High Risk of Excessive Rainfall
Parts of Texas and western Louisiana were under a rare Level 4 high risk of excessive rainfall, with over 600,000 people living in the high-risk zone. Major flooding led to water rescues in multiple Texas cities. An urgent warning was issued for residents to take cover as destructive wind gusts of up to 80 mph swept the metro area.
Impacts on Residents
In Houston, extreme wind speeds equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane were reported. Damages included power transmission towers mangled and roads blocked due to downed power lines. Houston Mayor John Whitmire urged residents to stay off the roads due to the hazardous conditions. Rainfall rates up to 3 inches per hour, damaging winds and potential tornadoes were also expected.
Ongoing Extreme Weather Situations
The deluge is set to continue in the Southeast, with some cities recording excess rainfall for the first few months of the year. The Southeast Regional Climate Center reported that several cities, including Dallas and Shreveport, are experiencing one of their wettest years to date. Unfortunately, the excess rainfall has also resulted in significant flooding, similar to levels seen during Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
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