16-year-old construction worker killed, 4 others electrocuted during violent storms

A 16-year-old construction worker died and four people were electrocuted during Tuesday's severe storms in the Montgomery County area.

The storms, accompanied by powerful winds sometimes reaching 75 miles per hour, caused widespread damage, including numerous downed trees and power lines throughout the county.

In Magnolia, two structures under construction, including a partially constructed house, collapsed. Authorities said the 16-year-old was working on the partially constructed home in the 33100 block of Willow Heights when the house collapsed. The teen recovered from the debris and was pronounced dead at the scene.

In another incident in Woodlands, a 35-year-old man was electrocuted by lightning, and in Willis, two adults and a teenager were electrocuted by a downed power line. All four people are expected to survive.

“The Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management urges all residents to exercise extreme caution around storm-related debris and avoid approaching downed power lines faulty, as they may still be live and present a serious risk.” » officials said.

Here's what to know about downed power lines and how to protect yourself according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International:

Be careful

• Downed power lines can power the ground up to 35 feet far. Even more so in wet conditions.
  

• Never drive over fallen power lines or through water that is in contact with them.
  

• Never attempt to move a downed power line. Even using items that are generally not conductive Won't do prevent injury or death
  

• If you see a downed line, call 911
  

If a vehicle comes into contact with a power line or utility pole, stay away and call 911.

• Consider that all lines are live and dangerous
  

• Stay where you are or inside your vehicle unless you see fire or smoke
  

• Warn others to stay at least 35 feet away
  

• Tell others not to approach the vehicle, the downed lines, or anything that might come into contact with the downed lines.
  

• Call 911
  

In case of fire or smoke

• Do not touch the ground and the vehicle at the same time
  

• Jumping out of the vehicle with your feet together
  

• Walk away, avoid lifting your feet
  

SEE ALSO: