More than 1.5 million customers in Texas are still without power following the landfall of Hurricane Beryl on the Gulf Coast. The power outages have left many residents in dangerous heat conditions, with temperatures soaring into the mid-90s. As the heat wave continues, the National Weather Service in Houston has warned of an increased risk of heat-related illnesses due to the lack of air-conditioning.
Despite efforts by CenterPoint Energy to restore power to over 900,000 customers in the Houston area, more than half of the 2.1 million energy customers in Harris County remain without power. This situation has prompted residents like Melissa Hunziker to rely on portable fans and other measures to stay cool. The loss of power has not only affected homes but has also disrupted cellphone connectivity, making it difficult for residents to access emergency information during this challenging time.
As Beryl transitions into a post-tropical cyclone and moves northward, areas in the Midwest, Northeast, and parts of the South continue to face heavy rain, flash flooding, and the threat of tornadoes. The aftermath of the storm has led to multiple fatalities, with injuries reported due to carbon monoxide poisonings and other related incidents. Authorities, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott and President Joe Biden, are working to provide support and resources to those affected by the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl.