Prolonged power outages, flooding hit Texas in Hurricane Beryl's wake
Hurricane Beryl, which hit the coast of Texas, caused over two million residents to lose access to electricity. Falling trees killed two people. Houston Airports located on the hurricane's path cancelled more than a thousand flights.
Dan Patrick, the state inspector currently replacing the Texas governor who is abroad, explained that emergency power teams cannot repair downed power lines until the wind decreases in strength.
Patrick also warned that intense rainfall continues, and the ground is already saturated. As a result, residents may face flooding and waterlogging issues for the next few days. "This is not a one-day event," he emphasized.
Two people dead. Over a thousand flights cancelled, roads flooded
According to authorities in Harris County, Texas, the hurricane caused the deaths of at least two U.S. residents. The victims died when trees, uprooted by the wind, fell on their homes.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that in eastern Texas, Beryl led to the formation of at least three confirmed tornadoes. These dangerous phenomena moved northwest.
Many roads in southern Texas were flooded and blocked, and traffic lights were also not functioning. Airports in Houston cancelled more than a thousand flights.
Before Hurricane Beryl made landfall, Texas authorities issued warnings for coastal residents. They were advised to prepare for flooding, heavy rains, and strong winds.
In several counties, officials called for voluntary evacuations from low-lying areas. A ban on camping on the beach was also issued.
"Beryl is moving inland"
The storm is expected to gradually turn north and then northeast.
Beryl is moving inland, but this is not the end of the story - stated Jack Beven, senior hurricane specialist at the National Hurricane Center.
Lina Hidalgo, a Harris County official, warned residents to take the hurricane threats seriously, "as if a tornado was approaching your direction."
The wind is very strong, stronger than we expected. (...) Take shelter away from windows, indoors, in safe places - she added.
Last week, Hurricane Beryl passed through the Caribbean, where a total of 11 people died, and then through Mexico, where fortunately no fatalities were reported.
