May 17th 2024.
Houston, Texas has been hit hard by a powerful and destructive series of storms that tore through the area, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The aftermath of this natural disaster has caused power outages that are expected to last for weeks, leaving over 900,000 homes and businesses without electricity in Harris County alone. As the storm's violent winds peaked, more than 650,000 people were still in the dark on Friday afternoon, according to PowerOutage.us.
In a news briefing on Friday, Harris County Judge Lina Hildago stated that for some lucky individuals, the power may be restored within a matter of days. However, for many others, the wait could be much longer, lasting for weeks instead of days. This extended timeframe for power restoration is due to the severe damage caused to critical power infrastructure, including 10 steel power transmission towers that were knocked down by the storm. Seven of these towers were located in Harris County, affecting a significant number of homes and businesses.
Unfortunately, it is unclear which specific areas are tied into these transmission lines. This uncertainty adds to the already troubling situation, especially as temperatures are expected to reach the 30s throughout the weekend and beyond. The severe weather has already claimed the lives of at least four people in Houston, according to the mayor's spokesperson, Mary Benton. Two of the deaths were caused by fallen trees, while another was the result of a crane accident, as reported by Houston Fire Department Chief Samuel Peña in a news conference. A possible fifth storm-related death is currently under investigation, according to Houston Mayor John Whitmire.
As if the initial storm wasn't enough, there is now a possibility of additional powerful and drenching storms hitting parts of the Gulf Coast on Friday. In light of this potential threat, the mayor of Houston has advised residents to stay off the roads and remain at home due to the widespread damage in the area. The mayor's office stated that many roads are currently impassable due to fallen trees, debris, and downed power lines.
The impact of the storm was felt even in downtown Houston, where buildings were left with shattered windows and traffic lights were rendered useless. At a Costco store, shoppers were forced to seek shelter inside when the power went out, using their phones as the only source of light. The employees had to close the doors to keep out the rain and strong winds. The storm's strength also caused damage to a nightclub and partially ripped off the roofing of the downtown Hyatt Regency, sending rain and debris into the hotel lobby, as seen in witness videos.
Even CenterPoint Energy, a major energy provider in the area, was not spared from the storm. The company's skyscraper in downtown Houston sustained damage, according to a spokesperson. As a result of the widespread destruction caused by the storm, the Houston Independent School District announced that campuses would be closed on Friday and would reopen on Monday. This decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff due to the significant damage across the city.
The people of Houston have been through a lot lately, with dangerous floods hitting the state earlier this month. Despite the challenges they face, the residents of Houston remain resilient and are coming together to support one another during these difficult times.
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