A weakening Hurricane Beryl, now a tropical depression, left a path of devastation across southeast Texas.
According to Daily Mail, the storm led to power outages, property damage, and deaths, disrupting daily life and healthcare services.
Hurricane Beryl initially made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane and brought widespread destruction before weakening into a tropical depression. With wind speeds up to 35 mph, Beryl caused power outages affecting over 2.7 million homes and businesses. The storm's impact forced several hospitals in Houston to close non-emergency appointments, with some operating on generator power.
Beryl's effects were not confined to Texas alone. The storm had previously ravaged Jamaica, Grenada, St. Vincent, the Grenadines, Mexico, and the Caribbean, causing deaths and significant destruction. As it reached Texas, over 1,300 flights were canceled, and oil ports were closed. Officials reported fatalities in Texas and Louisiana, adding to the toll taken by the storm.
The power restoration process has been slow but steady, with outages reducing from 2.7 million to 2.4 million by the evening. Emergency medical services continued in most hospitals, though outpatient and specialty services were suspended. Facilities like MD Anderson Cancer Center and St. Luke's Health System's Brazosport Hospital had to significantly adjust their operations due to the damage.
State and federal officials have been actively responding to the crisis. Cooling centers were opened, and food and water distribution was initiated to support affected residents. President Joe Biden has been in regular contact with Texas officials, assuring them of federal support for storm response and recovery efforts.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire emphasized the city's efforts: "Houstonians need to know we're working around the clock so you will be safe."
Nim Kidd, chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, highlighted the deployment of over 2,500 first responders statewide to tackle the crisis. Meanwhile, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick warned that difficult conditions were far from over.
The storm had earlier caused havoc in Mexico and the Caribbean, resulting in at least 11 deaths. As Beryl moved northward, tornado warnings were issued for northeastern Louisiana and Arkansas, with reports of tornadoes being spotted. Texas, still reeling from previous storms in May, faced compounded challenges due to Beryl's impact.
President Biden ensured that Texans would have the necessary resources for recovery, emphasizing federal support during a call with Houston's mayor. Economic damage assessments remain pending as rescue and recovery operations continue, but the scale of destruction suggests significant losses.
Efforts to restore power and provide aid are ongoing. Power outages have gradually decreased as crews work tirelessly to restore electricity to affected areas. The focus remains on ensuring that hospitals and critical services can function effectively despite the damage.
Cooling centers and distribution of essential supplies continue to provide relief to those affected by the storm. The state's emergency response teams are working around the clock to address immediate needs and plan for long-term recovery.
In conclusion, Hurricane Beryl, initially a Category 1 hurricane, caused widespread destruction and disruption across southeast Texas and beyond. The storm led to power outages, property damage, and numerous fatalities. Emergency response efforts are ongoing, with significant challenges remaining. State and federal officials are committed to providing the necessary support for recovery and rebuilding.
