Oncor is the largest electric delivery company in Texas, and the fifth largest in America, currently providing for over 10 million Texans in 420 cities and 120 counties in the state.

Power outages began at 01:25 am on Monday morning and citizens were informed that they were expected to continue, throughout all of Tuesday at the very least. The power outages impacted over 2 million businesses and houses, leaving them without power amid a raging winter storm.

The severe drop in temperatures resulted in a number of power sources shutting down and even the declaration that this is a state of emergency. For this reason; transmission companies, Oncor included, have had to place restrictions on power availability.

Further issues arose from the large number of people attempting to evacuate Texas on extremely dangerous roads, leading to a number of car accidents on the highways caused by the ice and snow, which will likely remain there for the time being.

Citizens are currently being urged to drive especially carefully as well as do what they can to conserve power. ERCOT () have listed several tips on how to do so:

• Turn down thermostats to 68-degrees.
• Close shades and blinds to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.
• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
• Avoid using large appliances (i.e., ovens, washing machines, etc.).
• Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.
• Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.

Oncor themselves issues a statement regarding the outages, as well as the answers to several FAQs. Click here for more information, as well as answers to these questions.