Tornado Near Houston Damages Over 100 Homes, Spreads Debris & Causes Power Outages During Thanksgiving Travel

Tornado Causes Extensive Damage to Over 100 Homes Near Houston

A powerful tornado ripped through residential areas north of Houston, Texas, causing significant damage to more than 100 homes. The storm, which struck on Monday, tore off roofs, dislodged garages from their foundations, and shattered windows across several neighborhoods. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the widespread destruction.

The tornado left a trail of uprooted trees, downed power lines, and extensive debris, impacting communities such as Klein, Cypress, Spring, and the Memorial Northwest neighborhood. Early Tuesday morning, heavy fog initially hampered a full damage assessment, though calmer weather conditions were anticipated later in the day.

First-Hand Account of the Storm's Fury

Miriam Harris, a resident, recounted her terrifying experience to KTRK-TV, describing the immense force of the winds. "I had the door and I was trying to hold it shut so that nothing would end up in the house," she said. Her home sustained roof and tree damage, and even her festive holiday light display was mangled.

Emergency Response and Community Impact

Emergency services quickly mobilized in response to the chaos. In Klein, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Houston, officials were diligently working to address multiple reported gas leaks, clear roads blocked by fallen trees, and remove debris from around homes and businesses, as confirmed by Ja’Milla Lomas of the Klein Fire Department. The Cy-Fair Fire Department even reported one of its engine crews temporarily seeking shelter in a resident's garage to escape the high winds.

The Harris County Precinct 4 constable's office shared compelling photos and drone footage on Facebook, showcasing widespread roof damage and blocked roadways. The Houston Fire Department deployed a five-member saw team to efficiently cut and remove toppled trees. At its peak, over 20,000 customers experienced power outages on Monday.

Broader Weather Context During Holiday Travel

The severe weather occurred during one of the busiest travel days of the Thanksgiving holiday period. While the immediate area braced for calmer conditions, heavy rain and severe thunderstorms were forecast farther south in Texas. The National Weather Service also predicted rain and snow for other parts of the country as Thanksgiving approached, highlighting a broader pattern of challenging holiday weather.