Memphis residents continue to face water problems as repair crews work to fix broken pipes caused by freezing temperatures, with the city's water company issuing a boil water notice affecting over 600,000 people. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency reports 28 other water systems under boil water notices and 19 counties experiencing operational issues. The extreme weather has led to 34 weather-related fatalities in Tennessee, while cities in Arkansas also grapple with water problems and potential power outages. The situation highlights the vulnerability of southern water infrastructure to severe cold, exacerbated by years of neglect and lack of preparation for such conditions.
A person staying at a Multnomah County overflow shelter in Gresham collapsed and died outside the building, prompting an investigation into the cause of death. This incident comes as Multnomah County is also investigating four possible deaths related to freezing weather conditions, while Clark County is investigating two and Washington County is investigating one.
Several school districts in the Gulf Coast, Mississippi area have announced closures for Tuesday due to freezing weather conditions, with some considering adjustments to their schedules. Additionally, William Carey University and Pearl River Community College have also closed their campuses for the day. Other school districts are expected to meet with emergency officials to determine whether schedule adjustments are necessary.
The Austin area is under a wind chill warning and hard freeze warning, with freezing drizzle and light snow reported. Schools are expected to announce delays or closures for Tuesday, and several have already announced closures. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas is asking people to conserve electricity due to increasing demand from the cold weather. Cold weather shelters and warming centers are open in Austin, and curbside collection may be delayed. Austin Homeland Security and Emergency Management held a press conference with updates on the city's response to the winter weather.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is urging Texans to conserve electricity from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. due to expected high energy demand and low reserves caused by freezing temperatures. If conditions worsen, ERCOT may declare an energy emergency, potentially leading to controlled outages as a last resort.
As freezing weather approaches Austin, residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages and icy conditions by stocking up on supplies for people, pets, and cars, as well as taking steps to protect plants and pipes around their homes. Tips for dealing with power outages and traveling during a winter storm are also provided, along with information on cold weather shelters and where to find local, trusted, and up-to-date weather information. The City of Austin offers emergency preparedness resources and events to help residents get ready for potential emergencies.
An arctic blast is set to hit Southeast Louisiana next week, bringing freezing temperatures to New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Residents are advised to prepare for the cold by ensuring their furnaces are working and protecting outdoor pets. Lows could reach the teens on the Northshore, with a potential 'hard freeze' for New Orleans and freezing air extending to the coast. Parts of the Midwest and the Plains may experience temperatures well below zero. WDSU has designated next Tuesday as a First Warning Weather ALERT Day.