Power Systems
What happened in Odessa following the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia?
Following landmark US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Russia launched multiple drone strikes on Odessa, Ukraine, targeting residential areas and causing significant damage. The attack left 160,000 residents without heat and electricity during freezing temperatures. Nearly 500 houses were damaged, along with 14 schools, a children's clinic, and several hospitals. Four people were reportedly injured, one seriously. President Zelensky condemned Russia's claims that they only targeted military installations, as the evidence clearly showed civilian infrastructure was hit. The attack's timing directly after peace talks raises questions about Russia's sincerity in negotiations.
Watch clip answer (01:02m)
WION
00:00 - 01:02
How is Texas's energy grid functioning during the current cold weather?
Texas's energy grid is currently operating normally despite the frigid temperatures. The correspondent reports that 'everything looks like it's running just fine.' However, the main concern now is how much the energy will cost consumers. Since Texas is not federally regulated when it comes to energy - described as 'a little bit of the wild west' - high demand during cold weather typically results in high prices. Residents are advised to monitor energy costs and consider adjusting their thermostats when away to save money.
Watch clip answer (00:41m)
CBS News
01:36 - 02:18
How is the polar vortex affecting middle America and the eastern United States?
The polar vortex is bringing freezing conditions with ice, cold temperatures, and snow across middle America and extending into the eastern United States. Millions of Americans from Minneapolis to Dallas are experiencing record low temperatures, with Dallas seeing temperatures as low as 19°F and wind chills making it feel like 2°F. Residents are bundling up and navigating slick, icy roads, though many are choosing to stay home altogether. The severe weather is causing school closures and raising concerns about Texas's energy grid due to unusually high demand. This significant weather event is uncharacteristic for February and is expected to continue with more cold spells predicted.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)CBS News
00:00 - 00:25
How does Texas's deregulated energy system affect costs during high-demand periods like winter storms?
Texas operates under a non-federally regulated energy system that functions like the 'wild west.' When demand rises during extreme cold, prices increase proportionally. While the grid is currently running fine during this winter storm, residents should monitor energy costs carefully. Many Texans raise their home thermostats while away at work to save money, as maintaining very warm temperatures can result in extremely high electric or gas bills at month's end. This pricing fluctuation is unique to Texas's deregulated market, where high demand directly translates to higher consumer costs.
Watch clip answer (00:48m)
CBS News
01:36 - 02:25
What is the current state of Texas's energy grid during the cold snap?
Texas's energy grid is currently functioning well during the severe cold snap, with reporter Omar Villafranca confirming that "everything looks like it's running just fine." While neighboring states are preparing warming centers in case of power outages, Texas has not reported significant grid issues. The main concern now is the potential cost of energy consumption during this period. Texas operates on an unregulated energy market that Villafranca describes as "a little bit of the wild west" since it's not federally regulated. This could lead to higher energy bills for residents as demand increases during the extreme cold temperatures.
Watch clip answer (00:30m)
CBS News
01:36 - 02:07
What is the current death toll in Kentucky from the winter storm and what additional weather challenges is the state facing?
Kentucky is experiencing a severe winter crisis with the death toll rising to at least 14, according to Governor Andy Beshear. This includes two new deaths reported since Monday. The situation remains critical as the state remains under a winter storm threat until Wednesday. Residents face additional challenges with 3 to 5 inches of snow expected to fall Tuesday night, while many areas are already experiencing below freezing temperatures. State officials are urgently warning people without power to find warm shelter as the dangerous conditions persist.
Watch clip answer (00:28m)
CBS News
19:02 - 19:31