HOUSTON (AP) — A tornado that tore through residential areas north of Houston on Monday has left a trail of destruction, damaging more than 100 homes and uprooting trees. Local authorities confirmed that the storm caused extensive property damage but, remarkably, no injuries have been reported.
The tornado ripped off roofs, moved garages off their foundations, and smashed windows throughout neighborhoods, creating significant safety hazards. Approximately 20,000 customers were left without power at one point due to downed power lines and disruptions caused by flying debris.
Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage, which has been complicated by heavy fog making visibility low. Cleanup operations are in progress, with officials working to clear roads and restore gas leaks that were reported, particularly in the Klein area, about 25 miles north of Houston.
The storm prompted many residents to take shelter, with one resident, Miriam Harris, describing her terrifying experience trying to hold a door shut against the intense winds. It was so forceful, she told local news.
With more severe weather anticipated in southern Texas as families prepare for one of the busiest travel days of the Thanksgiving holiday, a tornado watch remains in effect for the southeastern region, raising concerns about further storms. The National Weather Service has also issued warnings for heavy rain and possible snow in different parts of the country.
Emergency services continue to respond to reports of weather-related vehicle crashes and other incidents as cleanup efforts proceed in affected communities like Memorial Northwest, Cypress, and Spring.
