🌎 It’s World Press Freedom Day. Stand with Marketplace and our independent journalism. Donate now

Running an online business ... when the power goes out

Feb 18, 2021
Jess Evans, who runs an Austin trivia company, is "so cold and so worried about the business." A strong internet connection is her priority.
A polar vortex storm has brought historic cold weather and power outages to Texas. Above, a State Highway 195 sign in Killeen.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Deep freeze has Texas ranchers concerned about food, water for cattle

Feb 18, 2021
The state is limiting natural gas to human resource use, like heating homes.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Winter storms interrupt COVID vaccine distribution

Feb 17, 2021
In Austin, as well as at distribution hubs in San Antonio and Dallas, vaccine operations have been paused again Wednesday.
Multiple 18-wheelers wait in traffic on I-35 southbound on Feb. 15, 2021, in Austin, Texas.
Montinique Monroe/Getty Images

Texas blackouts during deep freeze highlight grid challenges

Feb 16, 2021
When it comes to electric power grids, supply and demand need to be in balance.
In Texas, the freezing weather raised costs for electricity ratepayers but caused many customers to lose power.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

"We could see our breath indoors": How some Texans are coping

Feb 16, 2021
The power's been on and off for almost two days for millions in the Lone Star State.
Texans are navigating loss of Wi-Fi, freezing homes and bursting pipes in the wake of the winter storm. Above, a couple walks through a snow-covered park in Houston.
Mark Felix/AFP via Getty Images

Cold snaps mean way more demand for natural gas

Jan 3, 2018
There’s plenty of natural gas available to heat and power homes through the cold spell that’s gripping much of the U.S. The problem is getting it where it’s needed, and hiccups in that process can mean price spikes. Click the audio player above to hear the full story.