Insights > We are Preparing for a Series of Additional Winter Storms

We are Preparing for a Series of Additional Winter Storms

By: Corporate Editorial Team

02/12/2021

After the first winter storm affected portions of our northern territory, a series of additional winter storms are threatening our entire service territory. Customers should prepare for the effects of these additional winter storms.

We have restored our customers whose power was affected by the recent winter weather. Now we are preparing for a series of additional winter storms that may affect most of our customers.

• On Feb. 13, a disturbance is forecast to combine with the cold arctic air mass in place across the area to support a round of light freezing rain and sleet. The system should develop across the Texas Hill Country and gradually spread east-northeastward.
• Low pressure is expected to track eastward across the Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley into early next week. This system is expected to support a risk of light to moderate snow, sleet and freezing rain.

We are all keenly aware of the damage major winter storms have caused in the last few days and in recent years. We’ve learned from them and we’re ready for these next rounds.

• Ice accumulating on trees and power lines can result in power outages.
• We have a plan of continuous preparation, training and action that we call Operation: Storm Ready.
• We’ve improved our operations based on previous storm responses and our annual storm drills.
• The first step of our action plan is to bring in extra personnel and make sure we can take care of them.

Customers should be prepared, as well:

1. Charge up mobile devices and back-up batteries.
2. Download the Entergy app to and sign up for text updates.
3. Review guidance at entergystormcenter.com.
4. If you have medical equipment that requires electricity to properly function, take necessary steps to secure an alternative source of electricity in the event of a power disruption.
5. Have an emergency kit including flashlights, medicine, first aid, water and food.

Here is what our customers can expect from us in responding to this storm:

• We will assemble and organize the workforce we need to restore service safely and quickly to all customers.
• We will keep you informed about our restoration progress using the channels listed below.
• After the storm, it could take up to three days of our scouts assessing damage before we will know how long it will take to restore everyone’s power.
• While we are assessing damage, we will begin restoring service where it is safe to do so.

Facing a winter storm is very challenging. As you prepare, keep in mind that it could take several days after the storm is over before we restore power to most of our customers.

• We use weather forecasts and computer models based on knowledge from past storms to predict an estimated number of customers without power and the number of days needed to restore power.
• We can restore power faster in areas with less damage. Some of the hardest-hit areas could take longer, so you may want to factor this into your decisions as you prepare for the storm.
• We will know more after the storm passes and we are able to fully assess damages.

If you lose power:

• Stay away from downed power lines. You can’t tell from looking at them whether they are energized or not, so assume they are. Report them to 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243).
• Report your power outage online or call 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243). If you report your outage by phone, trust the automated system. It works very well. There is no need to speak with a customer service representative to report an outage.
• If you have a portable generator, use it safely. DO NOT run it in an enclosed space. If connecting to the whole house, do so only if the connection has been installed by a licensed electrician.
• Do not open your refrigerator or freezer door. Food will stay cold much longer this way. If outside temperature is below freezing, consider placing food in an ice chest outside.
• Stay clear of linemen as they work.

To stay up to date on outages and restoration:

• Download the Entergy app for Apple or Android operating systems at Entergy.com/app.
• Register for address-specific alerts by texting REG to 36778. Customers will need an account number and ZIP code. Once registered, text OUT to 36778 to report an outage.
• Visit “View Outages.”
• Follow us at https://twitter.com/entergy or https://www.facebook.com/entergy.
• Follow updates in local news media, including radio, television and newspapers.
• For tips on battling winter’s chill, while still keeping a lid on energy bills, go to Entergy’s Storm Center and view our Operation: Storm Ready Guide.

As we face the possibility of winter storms, we want to be sure you are prepared.

• Above all, stay safe. A personal plan for you and your family is the best way to stay safe and be storm ready.
• Visit the Entergy Storm Center website for planning tools that can help guide you through the decisions you need to make.
• As we focus resources on storm restoration, routine tasks, such as installation of new service, are likely to be delayed.

Tags

Storm Center  Entergy System  Feb 2021 Storm 

Corporate Editorial Team