Cold weather storms in Central Texas delay polls, schools opening

3/4/14, "Wintry weather prompts delays in opening of some Central Texas schools, polling places," AP, Austin, Texas

"Wintry weather in parts of Texas has affected when some voters cast ballots on primary election day and led to calls for power conservation.

Travis County polling sites did not open until 11 a.m. Tuesday due to inclement weather in the Austin area. Polls are usually open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. statewide.

The secretary of state earlier advised election officials in Texas counties to monitor bad weather and that a court order would be needed to keep polls open past 7 p.m.

National Weather Service winter storm advisories Tuesday for the Austin, Houston and College Station areas have expired. An Electric Reliability Council of Texas advisory to limit power use also expired.

The University of Texas in Austin and Texas State University delayed classes until late Tuesday morning."




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