Torrential rains kill 4 in Houston, over 900,000 without power; Tornado alert sounded
Houston rains
For the second time this month, a severe thunderstorm pummelled Texas on Thursday (May 16).
As per reports, the torrential rains have already claimed four lives. Additionally, the storms have reportedly shattered windows in high-rise buildings and downed trees, and caused power outages for nearly 900,000 homes and businesses in the Houston area.
Fatalities
In a conversation with The Associated Press, Mary Benton, chief of communications and senior advisor to the mayor, confirmed the fatalities.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Houston has issued a rare 4 of 4 high risk for heavy rainfall, flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings. As per reports, damaging winds and possible tornadoes are predicted into the evening.
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NWS also urged residents to seek shelter and move to the lowest floors of buildings.
"Take shelter now if you're in the path of this storm. Head to the lowest floor" said the weather service on X.
Due to the torrential rains, streets were flooded, and downed trees and power lines created hazards throughout the region.
City officials advised residents to stay off the roads, as many were impassable, and traffic lights were out.
Houston's two major airports have also grounded flights due to the storm, with sustained winds of over 60 mph (97 km/h) recorded at Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Over 870,000 customers in and around Harris County, which includes Houston and has a population of over 4.7 million, lost electricity, according to poweroutage.us.
The Houston Independent School District has also cancelled classes for all its 274 campuses on Friday.
Earlier in May, heavy storms led to numerous high-water rescues in the region, including some from the rooftops of flooded homes.
ABC affiliate KTRK reported tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings on Thursday evening, with flood alerts for areas near and north of the Interstate 10 corridor until 7 am Friday.
(With inputs from agencies)
