The explosion at a machine shop damaged hundreds of nearby homes. Investigators found that flammable gas leaked into the building and was ignited by a light switch.
Environment
Coverage of climate, conservation, natural resources, and environmental policy shaping the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Climate Change in Texas
Climate change has sent temperatures soaring in Texas
Hotter days and nights. More record highs. Climate change has shifted the entire range of Texas heat upwards.
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Environment
At least four people killed after tornado hits Matador, a small town outside Lubbock
The city of about 800 also suffered extensive property damage and power outages. Crews were still assessing the full scope of destruction Thursday, and Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration.
Posted in
Environment
In tornado’s aftermath, Perryton residents refuse to see their town wiped from the map
Three people died, and part of the remote Panhandle town was destroyed. Its residents immediately set forth on the long road to recovery.
Posted in
Energy
Texas cities set temperature records amid relentless heat wave
Corpus Christi logged a heat index of 125 degrees at one point in the past week, as Laredo, Del Rio, San Angelo and Junction also set new highs.
Posted in
Economy
Texas farmers are worried one of the state’s most precious water resources is running dry. You should be, too.
The Ogallala Aquifer serves farming communities in multiple states. When it runs dry, the agriculture industry in Texas and the nation is in jeopardy.
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Environment
Swaths of East Texas without power amid a heat wave after severe storms
Some Texans may have to wait a week for their power to be restored during a period of extreme heat and humidity.
Posted in
Environment
“This is pretty devastating”: Three dead, more than 100 injured after tornado strikes Perryton
More than 100 people were injured in the tornado that hit the Panhandle town. Gov. Greg Abbott sent emergency crews to assist with recovery efforts.
Posted in
Environment
State environmental agency proposes new rules for concrete plants in Texas
The TCEQ has proposed changes to concrete batch plant permits including lowering production limits, reducing dust coming from plants and setting minimum distance requirements from nearby communities.
Posted in
Environment
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department opts for eminent domain to save Fairfield Lake State Park
With only three days left on the state’s lease, the agency unanimously voted to condemn almost 5,000 acres in Freestone County in an effort to keep the park open to the public after developers purchased the property to build a gated community.