Four individuals dead after severe thunderstorms move through Texas | US News

Severe thunderstorms have caused the death of at least four individuals in southeastern Texas for the second time in May.

The storms caused damage to high-rise buildings, downed trees, and left nearly 900,000 homes and businesses without power in the Houston area.

Mary Benton, chief of communications and senior adviser to the mayor, confirmed the four fatalities.

Multiple counties were issued flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings, with the Houston National Weather Service (NWS) office warning of damaging winds and potential tornadoes into the evening.

“Take shelter now if you’re in the path of this storm. Head to the lowest floor!” urged the NWS office on social media.

Flooding and fallen trees and power lines were reported throughout the region.

Citizens were advised by city officials to avoid driving as many roads were impassable and traffic lights were not functioning.

Due to the severe weather, flights were halted at Houston’s two main airports. Sustained winds exceeding 60 mph were recorded at Bush Intercontinental Airport.

More than 870,000 customers in and around Harris County, which includes Houston, were left without power, according to poweroutage.us.

The region was hit by heavy storms at the beginning of May, resulting in numerous high-water rescues, including some from flooded homes’ rooftops.