Extreme Cold Causes Water Woes For Residents, Schools

Although cold temperatures eased Thursday, the arctic front that gripped the region earlier this week continued to make its presence felt, with Entergy customers asked to conserve power and Port Arthur students sent home early because of a "pipe break parade" experienced throughout Southeast Texas. Several communities issued boil-water notices Thursday after water pressure fell farther than recommended. The city of Port Arthur had an estimated 50 pipe breaks reported this week, causing the boil-water notice to be issued Thursday, the city's Risa Carpenter said. "We have a bit of a pipe break parade going on right now," Carpenter said.