Washington, D.C. – Tuesday, February 16, 2021 U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) issued the following statement on Texas' winter storm blackouts. 

This is a painful time for Southeast Texas. After more than our fair share of hurricanes and tropical storms, we are now enduring a historic winter storm that has paralyzed our state, risked countless lives, and threatens untold property damage. 

What is happening across our state is unacceptable, and the lack of adequate preparation by ERCOT or resiliency in our power grid is inexcusable. 

We do not yet have all the answers, but I am working and will continue to work with my state and federal colleagues to get answers and formulate solutions so that nothing like this occurs again. In the meantime, I have been in contact with ERCOT, CenterPoint, and Entergy. I will continue to work with local utilities, power providers, and government officials to encourage the fastest possible restoration of power to our community.

Texans are strong, and we support one another. Please be sure to check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be without power for extended periods. If you or someone close to you is in need of a warming center, several have been established across the district and can be found at Warming Centers – TDEM (texas.gov).

Additional freezing rain and other wintery precipitation may be coming tonight and into tomorrow. With cold surface temperatures and ice, road conditions are considered dangerous. We are urging drivers to stay home. 

If you must move about, please be safe. For road conditions and closures, visit DriveTexas, but note road conditions can change suddenly.

This will be difficult, but just as we made it through Harvey, Imelda, and so many other storms, if we together and support each other, we will get through this and ensure this never happens again.

God Bless Texas

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