Storm restoration could be up to 48 hours, more storms expected
CPS Energy leaders cautioned customers to be ready for the possibility of more severe weather, while advising those who remain out from Saturday evening’s storms that it could be up to 48 hours before every customer is restored. As of 4:30 p.m., crews are working to restore power to 2,600 customers.
Yesterday’s severe weather delivered more than 6,300 lightning strikes and high winds, resulting in nearly 35,000 customer outages. Additional storms expected tonight and tomorrow could lead to more power outages, and hamper current restoration efforts.
“Public safety is also at risk right now,” said Jelynne LeBlanc-Burley, EVP & Chief Delivery Officer. “If you don’t have to get out on the roads, please avoid driving especially as night approaches and there’s less visibility of low water crossings. And, always, always remember to stay clear of downed power lines.”
Storm systems that continue to train, or come in one after another, are affecting Greater San Antonio and other parts of the state, creating power outages across Texas.
“We are committed to getting every last customer back on as soon as we possibly can,” said Rick Maldonado, Senior Director of Distribution Construction & Maintenance. “But we are in desperate need of the weather cooperating with us. As it is, some areas will be almost impossible to get to for replacing transformers, poles, and wires due to saturated grounds and flooded areas. That will make our final restoration efforts from yesterday’s storms extremely challenging and time intensive. We’re asking for everyone’s patience during the next two days.”
Restoration times for the remaining outages will be difficult to estimate due to the challenge of possibly not being able to reach infrastructure that needs to be repaired or replaced.
Customers with outages can check updates on cpsenergy.com by viewing CPS Energy’s outage map. CPS Energy’s Facebook and Twitter channels will also share general restoration updates.
CPS Energy advises customers to use extreme caution around fallen branches and trees because power lines could be entangled in them. Any downed line should be treated as if it is live and should not be touched. Customers should call 353-HELP (4357) immediately to report it.
