We are following breaking news millions of people in Texas are without power right now,

as the state looks to conserve energy and relieve stress on the electric grid.

From New York Times, I'm Michael Bobaro. This is The Daily.

Today, huge winter storms have plunged large parts of the central and southern United States,

including much of Texas into a deadly energy crisis.

Initially, we thought these outages would last maybe a few minutes. That's what we were told.

But many people have lost power for hours, a day longer.

With rolling blackouts, leaving much of the state powerless,

amid dangerously cold temperatures. Medical examiners in Galveston requesting a refrigerated

truck after reports of several cold weather-related deaths. My colleagues Clifford Krause and Brad Plumer

on why what happened in Texas may be a glimpse into America's future.

It's Wednesday, February 17th.

Hello? Cliff?

Hi, Cliff. It's Michael Barbou.

Cliff, can you hear me?

Yeah, I'm just trying to turn your service as a little spotty,

which under the circumstances makes total sense.

I'm just going to try to see if I can get a clean reception in a different place.

Yeah, you're starting to sound a little bit better, just as you moved.

Good, good, because I was in my car and now I'm in my house and now I'm in the second floor.

My car is warmer than my house, but the cell coverage is better in the house.

Okay. How does that sound?

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