As Texas grapples with another bout of unseasonably cold weather, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is vigilantly monitoring the energy grid and urging Texans to conserve energy where possible. This marks the second winter since 2021's storm Uri that the agency has expressed concern about power availability as temperatures plummet below freezing.
The state governor directed Texans across a broad swath from near El Paso to the Rio Grande Valley towards a storm resources page. He further advised those who have no choice but to drive to do so with caution in order to ensure the safety of other drivers and first responders. According to a report from Austin FOX station KTBC News, law enforcement units statewide have responded to multiple vehicular accidents by intensifying their efforts against dangerous driving as Texas contends with these unusual weather conditions.
Since storm Uri in early 2022, Texans have anxiously eyed their thermostats each time temperatures drop, questioning whether ERCOT can supply sufficient power for everyone, from those in warming shelters to ordinary residences. Houston FOX affiliate KRIV News reported that January 16 is likely to be the coldest day of this current cold spell, with high temperatures barely surpassing freezing.
City officials in Austin have urged residents to stay home unless they are in dire need of leaving. They also emphasized prioritizing the four P’s of winter preparation: people, pets, pipes, and plants. The state is expected to see a much-needed shift in weather later this week.