Ted Cruz: Clinton hits out at senator for leaving dog as Biden to declare Texas a ‘national disaster’

Texans are contending with the unforeseen consequences of the deadly winter storm that has left hundreds of thousands of people without power and millions without clean running water.

Firefighters have been faced with frozen water hydrants while trying to control fires, while a couple caring for their premature baby were forced to ration his oxygen tanks. Pets have been found abandoned in the snow.

Ted Cruz, meanwhile, has attempted to defend his decision to fly to Cancun, Mexico after returned home to jeering crowds. The US senator said he was just “trying to be a dad” by taking his daughters out of the freezing state to the popular holiday destination. He admitted that the decision was “obviously a mistake” amid calls for his resignation.

At least 56 people have been killed as a result of extreme weather conditions, including one man who was found frozen to death in his recliner.

• Man found frozen to death in his recliner in Texas as winter storm death toll rises

• Senator Red Cruz’s wife boasted about Cancun getaway to neighbours

• Surreal photos from Texas’ sub-zero weather: A frozen fish tank and icicles on a ceiling fan

• Pets are dying in Texas freeze as owners dump them outdoors in sub-zero temperatures

• Fear of parasites in water supply revived after winter storm damage