Houston, Texas – On May 28, 2024, a powerful line of storms swept through the Houston area, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm brought intense winds, hail, and blinding rain, impacting more than a quarter-million CenterPoint customers. Here’s a recap of the severe weather event and its aftermath:
Power Outages and School Closures
- Power Outages: Over 250,000 CenterPoint customers were left without electricity due to the storm’s impact. The strong winds and falling debris caused widespread damage to power lines and infrastructure.
- HISD Campus Closure: Due to power outages, Frank Black Middle School, part of the Houston Independent School District (HISD), had to close on Wednesday. The campus lacked electricity, and its cooling systems were not fully operational
Cooling Centers and Community Support
- Cool Down Centers: The City of Houston promptly opened several cool-down centers to provide relief to residents affected by the heat. These centers offered a respite from the sweltering conditions and allowed people to seek refuge and stay hydrated. Here are some of the locations:
- Spring Branch Family Development Center
- Fonde Recreation Community Center
- Thomas A. Glazier Senior Education Center
- Leon Z Grayson Community Center.
- Community Resilience: Despite the challenges posed by the storm, Houstonians came together to support one another. The city’s spirit of resilience shone through as neighbors checked on each other, shared resources, and extended helping hands.
FEMA Assistance
- Storm Damage and FEMA Aid: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo addressed the storm recovery during a news conference. She emphasized that residents who suffered damage from the storm could qualify for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) aid. This assistance would help affected individuals and families rebuild and recover.
Looking Ahead
While the severe thunderstorm watch has been canceled, Houstonians remain vigilant. The weather can be unpredictable, and preparedness is key. As the region transitions into cooler weather, let’s continue to support one another and stay informed about any further developments.
Remember, storms may pass, but community strength endures.
In summary, the severe thunderstorm that hit Houston caused widespread power outages, school closures, and community efforts to provide relief. FEMA aid is available for those affected. As Houston moves forward, resilience remains at the heart of its response to natural disasters
