AEP Texas is prepared for an arctic cold front that will sweep across the United States this weekend, predicted to usher in the coldest temperatures of the season across the AEP Texas service territory. Severe winter weather could impact our customers as early as Friday.
Crews are ready to respond to any outage situation.
AEP Texas is coordinating with the Texas Division of Emergency Management and state and local leaders across its service territory to confirm their preparedness and be ready to respond during an event. The company also is performing outreach to customers and providing tips to be prepared for the winter weather.
In addition, AEP Texas is preparing in the following ways:
- AEP Texas meteorologists continue to monitor the situation closely as the approaching winter weather pattern could affect the entire AEP Texas service territory across west and south Texas, with the most severe weather expected in the Abilene and San Angelo areas.
- All crews, including Forestry crews, will be on standby to respond to any outage situation, weather-related or otherwise.
- Crews continue to make extra patrols on critical circuits.
- Service trucks are fueled and fully stocked with supplies so crews may respond quickly and safely. Some crews will be strategically positioned in communities in case roads become impassable.
- Storerooms are prepared with enough material to respond to a severe weather event.
- Local damage assessment crews are ready to respond if necessary.
Customers are urged to prepare now for wintry weather and the possibility of power outages. In the case of a service interruption due to the weather, please remember the following:
- All downed power lines should be considered energized and dangerous. Do not touch anything in contact with the line, such as trees, fences, or ice. Keep children and pets inside during and after the storm. Stay at least 10 feet away from any downed power line.
- If you plan to use a portable generator, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never use outdoor grills, generators, or stoves indoors for heating.
- Customers on life support systems or other medical equipment that relies on electricity should have a solid backup plan for areas where prolonged outages may occur.
- Keep extra blankets and warm clothing available.
- Charge all cell phones and other essential devices in advance.
AEP Texas will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates, as necessary. Customers can follow us on social media and visit our website for the latest information.
For Customer Service issues, customers should call (877) 373-4858; or to report a safety hazard, please call (866) 223-8508; or visit aeptexas.com.