Devastating Aftermath of the Derecho
A severe windstorm, known as a derecho, hit downtown Houston and the surrounding region, causing widespread destruction and death. The storm, which occurred on May 16, 2024, brought wind speeds of up to 100 mph, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
Destruction and Damage
The storm damaged over two dozen buildings in downtown Houston, with an estimated 5,000-10,000 windows shattered, resulting in 20-30 tons of glass falling onto streets and sidewalks. The TotalEnergies Tower was one of the buildings severely affected, with significant damage still visible more than a month after the storm. Kris Larson, CEO of Downtown Houston+, stated that while most of the public repair work is complete, some buildings are still finalizing their repairs.
Economic Recovery Efforts
The economic impact of the storm was significant, with over 920,000 homes and businesses losing electricity. Many residents and business owners are still dealing with the aftermath, including navigating insurance claims. Nishi Kothari, a partner at the Brasher Law Firm, represents clients whose claims were denied or underpaid. She noted that her firm has seen a high volume of claims related to the derecho and subsequent Hurricane Beryl.
Ongoing Recovery
While progress has been made in the recovery efforts, there is still work to be done. Larson noted that some private properties are still undergoing repairs, and the community is continuing to rebuild. The region’s tree canopy was also severely affected, but efforts to replant trees are underway. In fact, the number of trees planted in the downtown area in the past year exceeds the number lost during the storms.
Preparing for Future Storms
As the Houston region enters a new Atlantic hurricane season, which is predicted to be more active than average, residents and business owners are bracing for potential future storms. Kothari advises those affected by severe weather events to document their damages, take photos, and try to work with their insurance companies to resolve claims. She emphasizes the importance of giving insurance companies the opportunity to "do the right thing" before seeking further action.
Conclusion
The derecho that hit Houston in May 2024 was a devastating event that caused widespread destruction and economic disruption. While significant progress has been made in the recovery efforts, there is still work to be done. As the region prepares for future storms, it is essential for residents and business owners to be proactive in documenting damages and navigating insurance claims. By working together, the community can rebuild and become more resilient in the face of severe weather events.
