5 dead after more Houston floodingHOUSTON — As more than a foot of rain deluged the nation’s fourth-largest city, inundating homes, shutting down major highways and leaving at least five people dead, Houston’s mayor said there was no immediate solution.Heavy flooding has become nearly an annual rite of passage in the practically sea-level city, where experts have long warned of the potential for catastrophe.“I regret anyone whose home is flooded again,” said Sylvester Turner, the city’s mayor, on Monday. “There’s nothing I can say that’s going to ease your frustration. We certainly can’t control the weather.”“A lot of rain coming in a very short period of time, there’s nothing you can do,” he added.Flash flooding and more rain are possible today, a day after some areas saw water levels approaching 20 inches. Scores of subdivisions flooded, schools were closed, and power was knocked out to thousands of residents who were urged to shelter in place.

Alaska teacher mauled by bearJUNEAU, Alaska — A man who teaches classes on the outdoors has been hospitalized after he was mauled by a bear during a mountaineering class in the Alaska Panhandle.Forest Wagner, 35, of Fairbanks, was with a group of students Monday on Mount Emmerich near Haines, Alaska, when he was attacked, according to University of Alaska Southeast spokeswoman Kate Bausler. A student hiked down the mountain to get cell reception and call for help.Wagner was taken to Providence Hospital in Anchorage, according to a statement from the university.His condition was not immediately available, but the university said he was stable.Wagner was leading a group of 11 students and 2 teaching assistants when he was attacked by a bear with cubs, the statement said. No students were hurt.