After Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Gulf Coast, more than 1.5 million customers in Texas were left without power, exacerbating the dangerous heat wave that enveloped the region. The lack of air conditioning in the sweltering heat posed a risk for heat-related illnesses, with temperatures soaring into the mid-90s and the heat index reaching 106. The National Weather Service in Houston issued warnings, urging residents to check on family members and pets, limit outdoor activities, and utilize cooling centers available across the city.
Despite critical power outages, many residents like Melissa Hunziker in Houston were making do without electricity, utilizing portable fans and alternative sources of cooling. It wasn’t just the lack of power but also the loss of cellphone connectivity that made emergency information hard to access, highlighting the challenges faced by those affected. With restoration efforts underway by CenterPoint Energy, Houston Mayor John Whitmire emphasized the priority of restoring electricity while addressing safety concerns regarding traffic lights and infrastructure damage caused by the hurricane.
