updated price of 50 pound bucket since the article was published

Lumber shortage and its impact on home-building 

What computer chips are used for and how this could last until 2022 

 -- "like tiny brains or memory receptacles" 

"Uncertainties caused by the pandemic" have "led to sharp swings in orders last year" 

How the chlorine shortage could impact swimming this summer

The impact of lumber shortages on the booming housing market 

For more information on how computer chips are important to everyday life

As Americans navigate the next stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages of everyday items are still occurring. 

"A pandemic swimming pool boom" has led to a 

for chlorine. *But* a major fire at a Louisiana chemical plant has 

This plant is one of only three chlorine tablet producers in America & has been closed since August.

The average price for a 50-pound bucket of chlorine tablets was about $80 last summer. It has now increased to approximately $200. 

 Chlorine keeps pools clean & helps maintain safe swimming conditions, protecting people from waterborne illnesses. 

Many sawmills decreased their production when the pandemic hit, expecting the need for lumber to be minimal.

the housing market began to surge & lumber production hasn't been able to meet demand. 

Due to COVID-related production challenges, the problem still grows. 

 "Soaring lumber prices that have tripled over the past 12 months have caused the price of an average new single-family home to increase by $35,872." (National Assn. of Home Builders) 

 They are "like tiny brains or memory receptacles” & are essential to most modern appliances such as smartphones, cars, & airplanes.

 Inventory miscalculations & "uncertainties caused by the pandemic" have "led to sharp swings in orders last year" & widespread shortages. 

 This production delay could result in longer wait times for items like cars, phones, & kitchen appliances until 2022. 

From toilet paper to chicken wings to chlorine - the pandemic has resulted in shortages of every kind (at different times). With increased demand and lower supplies for certain goods, this summer could once again be impacted by what *isn't* available on the shelves. 

Now You Know

Pandemic-Related Shortages

Card 2: 

Chlorine shortage  

updated price of 50 pound bucket since the article was published

Card 3: 

Lumber shortage and its impact on home-buil

Quick. Concise. Nonpartisan.

Emily Hooker