Tropical Storm Beryl Updates: State Confirms Third Death Amid Power Restoration Efforts

 State officials have confirmed a third fatality in Texas as Tropical Storm Beryl continues to impact the region with strong winds and heavy rainfall. The storm, which transitioned from Hurricane Beryl, has caused significant damage across Harris County, resulting in multiple fatalities due to fallen trees on residences.

CenterPoint Energy has mobilized restoration crews to address the widespread power outages affecting approximately 2.7 million Texans. As of Monday evening, the utility reported restoring power to about 285,000 customers, with plans to restore service to an estimated 1 million customers by Wednesday.

The storm, now downgraded to a tropical storm, prompted the National Hurricane Center to lift tropical storm and storm surge warnings. Despite the downgrade, Beryl continues to pose risks of flooding and tornadoes in East Texas.

Officials, including U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have emphasized the magnitude of the recovery efforts, anticipating a prolonged restoration period. Public Utility Commission of Texas Chair Thomas Gleeson urged patience from residents as crews work to restore power safely.

The impact of Beryl extends beyond power outages, with reports of significant property damage and the tragic loss of life. Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd announced plans to establish cooling centers and shelters amid ongoing heat concerns and prolonged power loss.

As the state navigates the aftermath of Beryl, local and federal officials are coordinating relief efforts, including potential emergency declarations to support recovery initiatives.

For more updates on Tropical Storm Beryl and its aftermath, stay tuned for further developments.