A deadly wave of severe winter weather brought historic snow, ice, and subfreezing temperatures to communities across Texas. Millions of people were left without electricity. Downed trees and power lines remain a serious problem. Many families have suffered major home damage due to frozen water pipes that burst. Some are still struggling with a lack…

Among the ruined items Michael Dixon pulled out of his dresser—soaked certificates, destroyed books, precious photos—he discovered a small keychain. Holding it up to the sunlight streaming through his window, a smile crept onto his face. “Sevierville. 1991. Howard’s restaurant. Our honeymoon,” he said, gazing at the two-inch photo of him and his wife, Nancy,…