Gulf Coast Faces Impending Floods Following Deadly Storms, Significant Damage, and Widespread Power Outages
Recent storms wreaked havoc on Texas and Louisiana, causing casualties, extensive property damage, and a massive power outage affecting over 1 million residents. As the Gulf Coast braces for more flooding, the aftermath of destructive winds and heavy rainfall continues to pose a serious threat to the region.
Texas and Louisiana were hit hard by storms on Thursday and Friday, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. The severe weather resulted in at least four fatalities, flooded roads, and over 1 million homes and businesses losing power. Unfortunately, more flooding is expected in parts of the Gulf Coast on Friday.
In Houston, four people lost their lives due to the extreme weather conditions. According to Mary Benton, the mayor's chief of communications, two deaths were caused by fallen trees, while another was the result of a crane accident, as reported by Houston Fire Department Chief Samuel Peña during a press conference on Thursday night.
Violent weather caused extensive damage to buildings in Houston, blocking roadways with fallen trees, debris, and tangled power lines. This resulted in a significant number of residents experiencing power outages. According to PowerOutage.us, over 934,000 homes and businesses were without power in Texas, with more than 166,000 affected in Louisiana as of early Friday.
The storm's intensity was so strong that it shattered windows of buildings in downtown Houston, scattering glass throughout the area while causing traffic lights to go out. At a Costco in Houston, shoppers found themselves in the dark after the power went out, using their phones as their only source of light. Employees quickly closed the doors to shield against the rain and strong winds.
Soaking storms will move towards the east on Friday, heading towards the Gulf Coast after starting in Texas on Thursday afternoon. These storms, which came with heavy downpours and severe storm dangers, brought a risk of flash floods and severe weather in the strongest cells.
Over 30 million people in parts of the Gulf Coast are at risk of severe weather on Friday, with 1 million people facing a moderate risk of excessive rainfall at Level 3 out of 4.
A significant portion of Mississippi and Alabama face a moderate risk of excessive rainfall on Friday. A larger area extending from the Texas-Louisiana state line to Georgia and the Florida Panhandle is at a Level 2 out of 4 risk. In New Orleans, the National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning until 2:15 a.m. CT due to heavy rain causing flooding in the area.
Drenching storms are expected to continue into Friday morning along parts of the Gulf Coast. The first half of Friday is likely to see an initial round of flash flooding before the rain starts to ease off in the afternoon.
Heavy rain is forecasted to return on Friday night and last until early Saturday morning, affecting the same areas that were hit earlier in the day. These storms have the potential to bring 2 to 3 inches of rain per hour, which could lead to renewed or increased flooding.
From Texas to Georgia, a widespread total of 2 to 6 inches of rain is expected by Saturday morning. In some areas, there is a possibility of receiving over 8 inches of rain from multiple intense storms. It is also possible for certain locations to receive close to 12 inches of rain within a span of 48 hours.
The latest update on ongoing storms in the southern US includes the possibility of twisters in certain areas. A tornado watch is currently in effect until 3 a.m. CT Friday for parts of southeast Louisiana. This watch applies to over 2.5 million people and includes the cities of Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
Violent storm causes damage to Houston buildings: Skyscraper windows blown out, nightclub partially collapsed, and downtown Hyatt Regency roof partially ripped off, showering lobby with rain and debris according to witness video. CenterPoint Energy reports skyscraper damage in downtown Houston from storm, spokesperson confirms.
Houston traffic lights out: Mayor John Whitmire advises residents to stay home as most traffic lights in the city are down. Power restoration could take 24 to 48 hours. Mayor's office urges Houstonians to avoid unnecessary travel due to impassable roads with downed power lines, debris, and fallen trees.
Some storms labeled as destructive: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Houston by the weather service, with the highest-level tag of "destructive." Residents were urged to take cover immediately as wind gusts of up to 80 mph were expected over the metro area. Reports also came in of winds reaching 78 mph on the east side of the city.
Major flooding results in water rescues: In Bryan, Texas, major flooding occurred on Thursday, leading to up to 20 water rescues as residents drove into the water. Nearby in College Station, videos shared with CNN showed heavy rain flooding a park in the area.
Roads in northern and eastern Bosque County, Texas are closed due to flooding, with water covering crossings and bridges. In Bell County, several roads are also flooded, while roadway flooding has been reported in McLennan and Falls counties.
In response to the widespread damage caused by the floods, more than a dozen school districts have decided to close. Houston Independent School District has announced that campuses will be closed on Friday and will reopen next week. Other Houston-area school districts, such as Aldine Independent School District, Channelview Independent School District, and Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, have also chosen to close on Friday.
Editor's P/S:
The severe storms that ravaged Texas and Louisiana have left a trail of devastation, claiming lives and causing widespread damage. The loss of four individuals is a tragic reminder of the destructive power of nature. The extensive flooding has also displaced residents, disrupted businesses, and left many without power. The potential for further flooding and severe weather on Friday is a cause for concern, with millions of people facing the risk of flash floods and excessive rainfall.
It is crucial for affected communities to prioritize safety and follow instructions from local authorities. Staying informed about weather updates and adhering to evacuation orders can help mitigate the risks associated with these storms. Moreover, communities should come together to support those impacted by the flooding, providing assistance and resources to help them recover from this challenging time.
