Texas Declares State Emergency Over Polar Vortex

Emergency response resources such as transportation crews, the National Guard, and medical teams have been activated, according to a statement released by the governor's office on Monday.

Texas Governor Abbott advises Texans to stay informed about the weather, to minimize non-essential travel and to find nearby warming centers using official state resources.

They reached out to the governor's office by phone and sent an email to the Texas Division of Emergency Management seeking comment.

Why It Matters

A powerful cold snap caused by the polar vortex has issued freeze warnings and advisories throughout Texas, putting people and infrastructure at risk.

With similar weather conditions expected, the state has implemented proactive measures to prevent potential dangers to residents and critical infrastructure. Texans are getting ready for possible power outages and hazardous travel situations.

What To Know

in some areas.

Houston and surrounding coastal areas may face wind gusts reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Meanwhile, the Dallas-Fort Worth region may experience extremely low wind chills, potentially dropping below 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Over 700 Texas Department of Transportation staff members have already applied a pre-treatment mixture of brine and granular materials to roads, bridges, and overpasses across the state in an effort to enhance safety.

State emergency teams, including the Texas National Guard, have been sent to areas with stranded drivers, to monitor power disruptions, and help with medical emergencies.

The storm caused a lack of access to food and water, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives.

What People Are Saying

I have activated emergency response resources for the state effective immediately in anticipation of severe winter weather hitting the state this week. With snow, ice, and freezing rain forecasted, we are committed to providing Texans with the support they need 24/7.

Bitterly cold conditions are already affecting North Texas, with wind chills dipping into the teens. The chill will intensify by tomorrow, with temperatures expected to feel like just single digits. Everyone should exercise extreme caution.

Frosty and extremely cold air masses sweep through the country during winter, impacting millions of Americans. This frigid air can be hazardous, especially when combined with brisk winds, which can lead to life-threatening wind chill values.

What Happens Next

People in Texas should get ready for freezing weather and possible snow throughout the week, but it's predicted that temperatures will become milder by the weekend.

Government officials will keep a close eye on infrastructure and give the public any information necessary to stay safe.

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