Walmart has closed as many as 500 stores due to the extreme weather conditions in midwestern and southern states.  In a statement issued Monday, February 15th, Walmart noted “The safety of our associates and customers is our top priority.”  The statement added, “ the Walmart Emergency Operation Center monitors winter storms and other potential disasters in real time.  We assess the status of our facilities and will continue to operate as long as it is safe to do so.  We pay close attention and follow local and state guidance.”  As of Tuesday, February 16th, most closures were in Texas but including a line extending northeast through Tennessee, Kentucky, to Virginia.  Some stores were closed in Chicago, Minneapolis, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Omaha.