El Paso: Utilities dispute cause of blackouts

Extreme cold starting Feb. 1 led to rolling blackouts, followed by a severe water shortage.

Critical facilities such as University Medical Center ran dangerously short of water, forcing such emergency measures as bringing in portable toilets and hauling water to toilets on the hospital's upper floors.

Residents were told not to take showers or wash dishes, clothes or cars. Schools were closed for the fourth day on Feb. 7 at the request of water officials.