Currently, nearly 50 million people in the central plains are facing the looming threat of severe weather. Recently, a tornado was spotted near Oklahoma City, adding to the already tense situation. In Texas, over 200,000 customers are grappling with power outages following last week's destructive storms.
Recovery Efforts in Houston
Houston is in the process of recovering from the aftermath of wild hurricane-force winds that caused significant damage. The city skyline showcases high-rise buildings with shattered windows, resembling a checkerboard pattern. An exclusion zone spanning six blocks has been established due to the hazardous conditions caused by shattered glass on the streets and sidewalks.
Authorities are diligently assessing the extent of the damage to numerous buildings in the affected area. Power outages remain a major concern, with approximately 400 out of 2,500 traffic lights in Houston impacted, leading to dangerous road conditions. Crews from various regions are working tirelessly to restore power and ensure public safety.
Power Outages and Heat Concerns
At the peak of the storm, nearly one million customers were without power in the region. Currently, around 200,000 customers in Harris County are still facing power outages, with 7,000 workers striving to expedite the restoration process.
Despite progress in power restoration, the looming heatwave poses a significant challenge. With temperatures soaring and the heat index reaching 99 degrees, concerns are mounting for residents without access to air conditioning. City officials are urging caution and advising individuals to avoid unnecessary travel to mitigate risks associated with the extreme weather conditions.
