Dozens of deaths have been tied to this week’s storm, but experts say the death toll is likely far larger.
Winter Storm 2021
As Texas faced record-low temperatures in February 2021 and snow and ice made roads impassable, the state’s electric grid operator lost control of the power supply, leaving millions without access to electricity. As the blackouts extended from hours to days, top state lawmakers called for investigations into the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, and Texans demanded accountability for the disaster. The Texas Tribune covered the impact of the storm in real time and continues to bring accountability coverage as officials address the issues exposed by the storm.
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Winter Storm 2021
Dwindling food, flooded halls, unflushable toilets: Texas’ university dorms descend into chaos during winter storm
The past week of power outages and water shortages have been particularly challenging for college students living in large residence halls who are unable to see their families or access supplies like extra clothing, food or a car.
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Winter Storm 2021
Gov. Greg Abbott says Texas is working to bring in more plumbers, help cities test their water
Abbott will be joined by emergency officials for his update from Austin. Many Texans remain without power, and water access has been disrupted for millions across the state.
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Winter Storm 2021
President Joe Biden says he’ll visit Texas soon and sign a major disaster order after a winter storm hammered the state
Biden also said he has directed multiple federal agencies to assist people in the state.
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Winter Storm 2021
How to help and get help in Texas as the winter storm causes power outages
Local organizations are providing warming shelters and resources, while nonprofits are asking for donations and volunteers.
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Winter Storm 2021
Texas students slammed again as storm scrambles already chaotic school year
The pandemic had already destabilized parents, teachers and students. Now the winter storm’s damage to buildings is preventing schools from even serving as lifelines for students in need of shelter and food.
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Winter Storm 2021
Here’s what you need to know if you don’t have access to clean water or are concerned about burst pipes
As power returns, half the state has issues with its water supply, and thawing pipes are at risk of bursting and flooding homes.
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Winter Storm 2021
Busted pipes, water damage, hotel bills: As power flickers on, costs loom for storm-weary Texans
Texans face a cascade of frustrations and expenses as the state tries to recover from the storm. Insurance companies are bracing for claims rivaling those after major hurricanes, and homeowners are trying to find plumbers and electricians.
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Winter Storm 2021
Already hit hard by pandemic, Black and Hispanic communities suffer the blows of an unforgiving winter storm
Texans of color, disproportionately devastated by death and unemployment during the last year, tend to live in neighborhoods with older homes, more vulnerable pipes and fewer food options. That’s made it harder to withstand the cold temperatures and power outages.
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Winter Storm 2021
Analysis: A winter storm leaves Texas with a black eye
The Texas government’s failures in the face of a winter storm have been very hard on Texans, and could do lasting damage to the state’s reputation.