2.7 million Texans in the dark as Hurricane Beryl causes widespread power outages

Hurricane Beryl’s effects in southeast Texas have resulted in power outages affecting at least 2.7 million residences and businesses. The storm, now a Category 1 hurricane, brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the state, leading to widespread disruptions in power.

Hurricane Beryl’s Landfall in Texas

Early Monday morning, Hurricane Beryl made landfall near Matagorda, Texas, a coastal community located between Galveston and Corpus Christi. The National Hurricane Center reported that Beryl sustained winds exceeding 80 mph as it struck the region around 4:30 a.m. CT. The storm’s arrival triggered a tornado warning for multiple counties issued by the weather service in Houston, highlighting the severe weather conditions extending from far east Texas into northwest Louisiana and southwest Arkansas.

Escalating Power Outages

As of 1 p.m. CT, the USA TODAY Network power outage tracker reported that 2.7 million homes and businesses were without power. The number of outages saw a dramatic increase on Monday morning, with initial reports indicating around 163,000 outages just before 7:30 a.m. CT. The relentless storm surge and heavy rainfall contributed to the rapidly escalating power disruptions.

Disaster Declarations and Government Response

In anticipation of Hurricane Beryl’s impact, Acting Governor Dan Patrick issued disaster declarations for 121 counties across Texas on Saturday. Patrick emphasized the potential for heavy rain and localized flooding along the storm’s projected path, which included areas near College Station, Tyler, and Texarkana. The state government mobilized resources to address the impending natural disaster and mitigate its effects on the affected communities.

Power Restoration Efforts

As crews began addressing the power outages, CenterPoint Energy reported significant progress in their efforts to restore electricity. At the peak of the outages, approximately 2.26 million customers were without power. By the afternoon, this number had slightly decreased to 2.141 million, reflecting the ongoing efforts of thousands of workers on the ground. CenterPoint’s response teams initiated a “cut and clear” process to identify and isolate damaged areas, expediting the restoration of power to unaffected sections.

Safety Precautions During Power Outages

Amidst the power restoration efforts, safety remains a top priority. During the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, seven individuals tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning, underscoring the importance of proper generator usage. Residents are urged to use generators outdoors, away from doors and garages, to prevent the accumulation of dangerous fumes. Generators should be plugged directly into outlets, not extension cords, and individuals should remain vigilant for symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as shortness of breath and headaches. Immediate medical attention is crucial if these symptoms occur.

Conclusion

Hurricane Beryl’s arrival has caused significant disruptions across southeast Texas, with widespread power outages affecting millions. The state’s proactive measures and the tireless efforts of power restoration crews are critical in addressing the aftermath of this severe weather event. Residents are advised to prioritize safety and stay informed about the progress of restoration efforts as they navigate the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl.