Ferocious thunderstorms brought chaos to Houston on Thursday, with at least four people killed and almost 1 million homes and businesses left without power as hurricane-speed winds ripped down trees and damaged buildings while torrential rains flooded the streets.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire confirmed the fatalities at an evening briefing. He also advised workers to stay at home Friday and said school classes are also canceled. “Stay at home tonight,” Whitmire said. “Don’t go to work tomorrow, unless you’re an essential worker.”
Houston Fire Chief Samuel Peña said early information suggested that two of the deaths were caused by falling trees. A third was caused by a crane being “blown over” by the strong winds, Peña added. No information was given about how the fourth victim was killed.
