Texas
How cold is it in Dallas during the polar vortex?
Dallas is experiencing extreme cold conditions with temperatures at approximately 19 degrees Fahrenheit, but the wind chill makes it feel like just 2 degrees. The severity of this cold snap is highlighted by CBS News correspondent Omar Villafranca, who points out that it's actually warmer in Reykjavik, Iceland and Anchorage, Alaska than in Dallas, Texas. This unusual weather pattern is part of a polar vortex affecting multiple states, creating hazardous conditions and raising concerns about energy consumption and rising electric bills across the affected regions.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)
CBS News
00:34 - 00:50
How severe is the cold weather in Dallas due to the polar vortex?
Dallas is experiencing extreme cold with temperatures at roughly 19 degrees but feeling like 2 degrees due to wind chill. The reporter notes it's colder in Dallas than in Reykjavik, Iceland and Anchorage, Alaska. This cold snap has moved down from the north, affecting a large region from Wyoming to Oklahoma with heavy snowfall. The frigid conditions are impacting roads and travel, with high winds creating particular challenges for high-profile vehicles like 18-wheelers, though Texas highways are currently moving without major accidents.
Watch clip answer (00:52m)
CBS News
00:34 - 01:27
What winter weather challenges are affecting southern states like Texas?
Southern states are experiencing severe winter conditions with snow and ice affecting regions from Texas to Mississippi. Winter storm warnings have been extended to Dallas, Shreveport, and Starkville, with additional advisories stretching from Wichita to Kansas City through southern Missouri, affecting approximately 60 million people. Residents are advised to take precautions against the extreme cold pushing through South Texas, including keeping faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing. This significant winter weather event combines dangerous frigid temperatures with snow and ice, creating hazardous conditions across multiple states.
Watch clip answer (00:34m)
NBC News
06:18 - 06:52
What are the key statistics and concerns about the recent measles outbreak in Texas?
Texas has reported 58 measles cases in just three weeks, primarily affecting children and teenagers, with all but four cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. The outbreak has already resulted in 13 hospitalizations nationwide. The situation reflects a concerning trend as measles vaccination rates among kindergarteners have declined since 2019, dropping below the threshold needed for herd immunity. This decrease in vaccination coverage has created conditions where this highly contagious but preventable disease can spread rapidly, particularly among vulnerable populations without immunization protection.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)
MSNBC
02:58 - 03:27
What factors are contributing to the measles outbreak in Texas?
The alarming measles outbreak in Texas has seen 58 cases in just three weeks, primarily affecting unvaccinated children and teenagers. This outbreak stems from plummeting vaccination rates, which have fallen below the herd immunity threshold since 2019. Of the 58 cases, all but four involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Anti-vaccine activism, including misinformation spread by figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has played a significant role in declining vaccination rates. Kennedy previously promoted debunked theories about the measles vaccine in Samoa. With 13 people hospitalized across the country, this preventable disease has become a serious public health concern requiring urgent attention.
Watch clip answer (00:51m)
MSNBC
02:48 - 03:39
What severe weather conditions are currently affecting the southern United States?
The southern United States is currently experiencing extreme cold warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service, particularly affecting the Texas-Mexico border region. This polar air mass has created hazardous conditions throughout the area. Simultaneously, severe weather is sweeping across the southern states with significant moisture moving toward the Carolinas. This dual threat of extreme cold and moisture-laden storm systems is creating challenging conditions, potentially leading to hazardous travel and localized flooding in affected communities.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)
CBS News
03:06 - 03:21