AEP Texas continues to actively prepare for Tropical Storm Francine as it develops in the Gulf of Mexico.

Crews from across the AEP service territories, including from the San Angelo and Abilene Districts, are arriving to pre-stage for a severe weather event. Crews and support employees in the Corpus Christi and Rio Grande Valley districts are also positioned and ready for a response.

In addition, a gateway receiving center for crews assisting with the possible restoration efforts will open in Robstown Monday. Staging sites along the Texas Gulf Coast have been identified and will be used if necessary.

Customers are reminded to prepare now for the potential of severe weather and power outages. AEP Texas urges customers to follow these safety guidelines:

• Treat any downed power line as energized and dangerous. Do not touch anything in contact with the line, such as trees, fences, or puddles of water.
• Keep children and pets indoors during and after the storm, as power lines may be affected.
• Stay at least 10 feet away from any power line to avoid injury.
• Customers who rely on life support systems or other medical equipment that requires electricity are reminded to have a backup or evacuation plan in place in case of prolonged outages.
• If you plan to use a portable generator, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe operation.

AEP Texas will issue updates as more information becomes available. For more hurricane safety tips and guidance on what to do before, during, and after a storm, please visit aeptexas.com/safety.