Why ice and wintry weather can cause power outages
Stay safe and prepared with these tips
As severe winter weather continues to make its way through the Hill Country, we are closely monitoring conditions and working hard to keep your power on. Overnight on Friday, Feb. 12, there were 103 PEC crews actively responding to outages, most of which were caused by iced tree limbs falling on power lines.
Our dedicated lineworkers are ready to respond across the service territory and will get the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible. Unfortunately, forecasts are showing wintry weather into next week, increasing the chance for outages despite our best efforts. Now is the time to get prepared.
Wintry weather and power interruptions
- Ice and snow accumulation. One of the most common causes for outages during winter storms is due to ice accumulation. When ice or snow builds up on a tree, it can cause that tree or its branches to get heavy and fall on power lines. If ice accumulates on a power line, it can cause the same result. If you see a downed line, call our emergency report line immediately: 888-883-3379. Stay away from the line and anything touching it, and do not drive over it.
- Extreme temperatures. Freezing conditions and drastic temperature changes can affect electrical equipment and cause service interruptions.
To stay prepared:
- Download PEC’s SmartHub app to report and track outages, quickly and easily.
- Keep your phone and a charged battery bank with you at all times in case of an outage or emergency.
- Know your PEC account number — it’s located on your bill and you’ll need it to report outages when you call us. Keep it in your phone’s notepad for easy access.
- Have a flashlight and batteries ready or use the flashlight on your phone to find your way around your home safely.
Report outages promptly via SmartHub or by calling at 888-883-3379. Stay on top of the latest restoration efforts using our outage map at pec.coop/outages.