Texans are sharing their experiences of enduring extreme cold and their efforts to safeguard their children amidst the crisis. Over 3 million residents have been left without power for several days, with nearly as many facing water shortages due to burst pipes. As families grapple with freezing temperatures, many have turned to social media to express their struggles.
In some homes where water is still running, the cold is so intense that icicles are forming from faucets instead of water. The impact of the cold wave has been particularly hard on parents who are trying to keep their families safe and warm. Since the onset of the freeze, countless households have lost access to electricity, water, and food supplies that have gone bad.
One mother vented her frustration on Twitter, saying, “Having no power for over 24 hours with two kids is unbearable. Despite layering my kids in three outfits and covering them with four blankets, they both woke up sick. This is unacceptable. Do better, Texas!” Another family resorted to burning their child’s wooden domino set to keep warm.
Some fathers have reported staying up all night to tend to fires, only to find that their homes remained as cold as 48°F. A particularly alarming story involved a father driving his child to the emergency room, only to discover that the hospital was also experiencing water shortages.
As of February 18, 2021, CNN reported a slight improvement in power outages, but the situation remains precarious with ongoing extreme weather conditions. Tragically, at least 16 Texans have lost their lives due to the severe cold. Almost 7 million residents are under boil-water notices, meaning they cannot safely drink water without boiling it first—a challenge compounded by the fact that many have no running water or the means to heat it.
For those fortunate enough to find hotel accommodations, options are limited as many hotels are fully booked and some are facing power outages, too. Fortunately, forecasts indicate a potential easing of conditions in the coming days as the power grid stabilizes. Families in need of warmth and shelter are advised to contact the local Red Cross for assistance.
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Summary
As Texas grapples with a severe freezing crisis, families are sharing their struggles to keep warm and safe. With millions lacking power and water, parents are finding creative ways to protect their children from the extreme cold. The ongoing situation raises significant concerns, as hospitals face shortages, and resources become increasingly scarce.