As winter weather rolls into the area for the next few days, the freezing temperatures and possible icy precipitation may cause local power outages. During windy and stormy weather, heavy ice and snow can cause tree limbs to break and sway, rubbing against or hitting power lines and interrupting power service.
Austin Energy is prepared for cold, icy weather and is ready to respond to any effects on the electric system. You may see line workers, forestry crews and trucks in your neighborhood, but employees throughout the utility are also working 24/7 to safely provide power to the community.
With the cold weather ahead of us, here’s what you can do to stay informed, safe and prepared:
Stay Informed:
- Register for Austin Energy’s Outage Alerts by texting REG to 287846.
- Follow Austin Energy on social media: Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
- Sign up for emergency notifications by text, email or phone at Warn Central Texas
- Monitor ERCOT grid conditions and public notices for information impacting local and statewide electricity service.
To report a power outage, text OUT to 287846 or visit outagemap.austinenergy.com. You can also report an outage by calling 512-322-9100.
Stay safe and prepared:
Keep doors and windows closed to minimize hot air from escaping the home.
If you have a fireplace, use it to help heat your home instead of turning up the thermostat. When not in use, make sure your fireplace damper is closed to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney.
Never heat your home with a gas oven or burn anything in a stove or a fireplace that is not vented. Do not burn paper in a fireplace.
Keep cellphones charged and backup chargers fully charged.
Have on hand flashlights and extra batteries, as well as a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio if possible.
Unplug appliances and turn off most lights to avoid overloading circuits when power is restored.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed during an outage and follow FDA guidelines for food safety.
