Houston faced a terrifying evening on May 28, 2024, as Houston severe weather brought damaging winds that reached up to 100 mph. This powerful storm led to widespread destruction, significant power outages, and tragically, several fatalities.
The Impact of Houston Severe Weather
The storm struck hard and fast, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. Downtown Houston was particularly hard hit, with the roof of the Hyatt Regency hotel blown off, allowing rain and debris to flood into the lobby. The extreme winds also shattered windows of high-rise buildings, scattering glass across the streets below.
In the Baytown area, wind gusts estimated between 90-100 mph were reported, wreaking havoc on structures and trees alike. Harris County, encompassing Houston and its surrounding regions, bore the brunt of this Houston severe weather while still reeling from a previous derecho that had struck just a few weeks earlier on May 16.
Specific Areas Affected
- Downtown Houston: The roof of the Hyatt Regency was blown out, and high-rise windows were shattered by the fierce winds.
- Baytown: Gusts up to 100 mph caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.
- The Heights: Roads, especially at the intersection of 14th and Oxford streets, experienced significant flooding.
- Harris County: Already recovering from earlier storms, faced additional damage and disruption.
Power Outages from Houston Severe Weather
The storm’s ferocity led to over 1 million customers losing power at its peak. Power lines and transmission towers were downed across the city, plunging many neighborhoods into darkness. Areas like the Stone Gate Community in northwest Harris County were among those that experienced prolonged outages, leaving residents demanding answers and solutions from CenterPoint Energy. As of the following day, May 29, over 145,000 customers were still without electricity due to this Houston severe weather.
Human Toll of Houston Severe Weather
Sadly, the storm also claimed lives. Seven fatalities were reported, primarily due to fallen trees and a toppled crane. These tragic incidents underscore the deadly potential of Houston severe weather and the importance of being prepared.
Moving Forward
As the city begins the arduous process of cleanup and recovery, the resilience of Houstonians shines through. Emergency services are working around the clock to restore power, clear debris, and provide support to those affected. This storm is a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often destructive nature of Houston severe weather, and the critical need for robust preparedness and response plans.
Stay safe, Houston. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating storm. Let’s come together and support each other as the city rebuilds and recovers.
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