At Least Four Dead As Storms Pummel Houston

Severe Storms Devastate Texas, Leaving Trail of Damage and Loss

At Least Four Dead as Storms Pummel Houston

Updated May 18, 2024, 2:14 PM

A powerful storm system unleashed its fury on Texas on Thursday evening, leaving behind a wake of destruction and loss. As of Friday morning, the storm has claimed the lives of at least four people and left hundreds of thousands of Texans without power.

The worst hit area was the Houston metropolitan area, where strong winds and heavy rains battered the city. Houston Mayor John Whitmire reported that the storms caused widespread damage to infrastructure and property.

School officials in Houston canceled classes on Friday due to the storm damage. Hundreds of thousands of residents were left without electricity, as utility crews worked to restore power to the affected areas.

The National Weather Service reported that the storms were part of a complex of thunderstorms with hurricane-force wind gusts. The storms also spawned numerous tornadoes, which touched down in several parts of the state.

Officials are urging residents to use caution and be aware of downed power lines and other hazards in the wake of the storm. Emergency response teams are working to clear debris and provide assistance to those in need.

The full extent of the damage caused by the storms is still being assessed. However, it is clear that Texas has been dealt a significant blow by this severe weather event.