Houston Hammered By Band Of Severe Storms

HOUSTON — The rumble of thunder and a spectacular lightning show accompanied a band of severe storms that rolled through the Houston area early Monday. The National Weather Service issued a flood advisory for residents living in downtown and areas north until 8 a.m.

Officials are reporting areas of minor street flooding in areas of north Harris County, particularly in areas of Cypress and areas north of Katy, and areas northeast of the Houston area.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported that several deputies was hospitalized for smoke inhalation after a lightning strike sparked a fire at a building in northwest Harris County Monday morning. No one else was injured and the deputies are expected to be OK, officials said.

The storms caused flight delays at Bush Intercontinental Airport after officials issued a ground stoppage until the storms pass through the region.

Due to weather at IAH, there is a ground stop for traffic arriving into IAH until 6:30 am. Some departing flight may also be affected. Check with your carrier for detailed information. #fly2houston
— Houston Bush Airport (@iah) June 24, 2019

Motorists were advised to get an early start on their commute into downtown and to exercise caution on the slick roadways. However some motorists encountered high water in some flood prone areas of the city.

At least one man had to be rescued from rushing water at State Highway 288 and Brays Bayou. Officials are warning motorists to be cautious on Houston area roadways.

The rain and severe weather is expected to clear Monday evening.

Send your news tips and story ideas to bryan.kirk@patch.com