Severe Weather Hits Southern US States
Louisiana and surrounding states experienced severe weather starting on May 10, 2024, resulting in fatalities, power outages, and significant damage. Two people died in Louisiana: a woman in Baton Rouge when a tree fell on her mobile home and another individual near Henderson. Baton Rouge authorities reported that a man and a five-year-old boy, also in the mobile home, were hospitalized.
The National Weather Service reported winds exceeding 75 mph, prompting immediate sheltering directives. Henderson and parts of St. Martin Parish faced extensive damage, leading to school closures and disruption of essential services. Authorities in Henderson urged residents to stay indoors.
Houston, Texas, experienced severe flooding earlier in the month, necessitating the rescue of over 400 individuals. A lightning strike closed a runway at Houston’s Hobby Airport. Both Texas and Florida reported large hailstones, further complicating the situation.
A tornado watch remains active for parts of Florida and Georgia. The storm activity follows a historically active tornado season from late April to early May, during which at least 267 tornadoes were confirmed. This season significantly impacted multiple southern states, including causing damage in Tallahassee, Florida.