What is a derecho? The deadly storm that stunned the Houston area

HOUSTON – Thursday’s deadly storm is now classified as a Derecho, a type of straight-line wind storm, according to the National Weather Service.

They confirm what KPRC 2 Chief Meteorologist Frank Billingsley predicted Friday morning.

RELATED: Here’s what hit Houston yesterday

NOAA Derecho Definition: A widespread, long-lasting wind storm associated with a band of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms. If wind damage extends more than 240 miles and includes wind gusts of at least 58 mph or greater for most of the length.

The storm started north of Houston and ended southeast of Houston. The KPRC 2 Weather Team is researching to see exactly where the derecho started.

Derechos are considered rare.

RELATED: EF-1 tornado confirmed to land in Cypress area amid severe weather

Straight line winds are often confused with tornadoes due to their dangerous and destructive nature. Unlike tornadoes, straight-line winds do not rotate.

In the Cypress area, the National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down Thursday evening. Officials said the tornado’s strength was EF-1 with winds gusting to 110 mph.

RELATED: EF-1 tornado confirmed to land in Cypress area amid severe weather

Houston Mayor John Whitmire told the city Thursday evening that at least four people had died due to the storm. A young mother of four was among the victims, police said. She tried to move her car so no trees would fall on it, but tragically, a tree fell on her vehicle while she was inside.

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