Winter storm Uri brought historic cold weather causing people to lose their water as pipes broke throughout the area. Photo: Getty ImagesPresident Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for Texas as the state struggles with the fallout from a winter storm that killed at least two dozen people and caused widespread blackouts and water shortages. Abbott thanked the president for approving the major disaster declaration, saying in a statement that it was "an important first step." Toby Baker, TCEQ's executive director, said the agency will do a full review of the regulations governing the state's water systems. Separately, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued civil investigative demands to ERCOT and other power companies regarding power outages, emergency plans, energy pricing and more related to the winter weather.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 20, 2021 21:45 UTC