Texas is grappling with the aftermath of devastating storms that have left nearly 650,000 buildings without power in the Dallas area, with Oncor expecting to restore electricity by the weekend. The severe weather claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy when a home under construction collapsed in the Houston suburb of Magnolia. Over the Memorial Day weekend, the storms, which are part of a larger severe weather pattern in the US, contributed to at least 24 fatalities across seven states and caused flooding, property damage, and hundreds of flight cancellations.The National Weather Service has issued warnings for continued severe weather in the central US over the coming days, with the potential for heavy rains, localized flash flooding, and severe storms. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for extended power outages, as utility companies work round the clock to repair the damage caused by 70 mph winds and golf-ball-sized hail. The Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator is set to visit Arkansas to assess the damage from the weekend’s tornadoes.The harsh weather conditions have prompted the Dallas Independent School District to close its doors, and schools across the state were canceled on Wednesday. As temperatures rise, there is increasing concern for the well-being of vulnerable individuals at risk of heat stress or heat stroke. The community is advised to stay hydrated, seek cool environments, avoid direct sunlight, and check on neighbors and family members.
Key points
- Severe storms in Texas have caused widespread power outages, affecting nearly 650,000 buildings in the Dallas area.
- A 16-year-old boy died when a home collapsed in Magnolia, and at least 24 people were killed across the US over the Memorial Day weekend due to severe weather.
- Power restoration efforts are ongoing, with full restoration expected by the weekend, and schools were closed on Wednesday.
- The National Weather Service warns of continued severe weather in the central US.
Contradictions👾While most sources report power outages affecting around 650,000 buildings in Texas, there is some variation in the numbers, with reports of over 400,000 to 800,000 buildings without power.
