September 13, 2008 (10 images)

A Houston Police Department officer blocks off traffic heading into Houston's downtown in Houston, Texas on September 13, 2008. Hurricane Ike hit the Texas coast early today. (UPI Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)

Damage is seen at a Shell gas station in Houston, Texas on September 13, 2008. Hurricane Ike hit the Texas coast early today. (UPI Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)

A Houston Police Department officer maneuvers through debris on the road in downtown Houston, Texas on September 13, 2008. Hurricane Ike hit the Texas coast early today. (UPI Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)

Pope Benedict XVI salutes worshippers as he leaves after celebrating mass in Paris September 13, 2008. The pope is scheduled to spend two days in Paris before travelling to the pilgrimage site of Lourdes. (UPI Photo/Eco Clement)