This morning, more than one million power outages are reported across Texas and Louisiana, with Houston experiencing significant damage. The intense rain has flooded stores, blown out windows, and even caused leaks at Minute Maid Park during a Houston Astros game.
The storm, which tore through parts of Texas before moving into western Louisiana, has left a trail of destruction. In New Orleans, heavy downpours triggered flash flood warnings, while a tornado watch has been issued by the National Weather Service.
Currently, over 200,000 people in Louisiana are without power, and in Texas, more than 800,000 residents are facing power outages. The storm brought hurricane-force winds exceeding 70 miles per hour to Houston, resulting in toppled trees, shattered windows in high-rise buildings, and widespread debris.
Tragically, the storm has claimed at least four lives, primarily due to fallen trees. The situation is dire, with roadways blocked by fallen trees and debris, prompting officials to urge residents to stay at home and avoid unnecessary travel.
Public schools in Houston are closed, and non-essential workers are advised to remain home. The storm system is now moving eastward across the Mississippi River Valley, posing a continued threat of flooding and severe weather to Gulf Coast states.
As the storm progresses, areas from Texas to Florida are at risk of heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and severe storms. The forecast indicates that the storm's impact will extend into the weekend, with flash flood threats persisting in several states.
While the storm moves towards the northeast, the plains states in the northern region may also experience severe weather conditions. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.