Austin Energy preparing for potential outages ahead of possible severe weather

AUSTIN, Texas — We’re tracking the potential for severe storms across Central Texas Thursday afternoon and evening. The main concern will be possible gusty winds, though pockets of hail and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

Those strong gusts could pose a threat to trees already weakened during the ice storm in early February – and that could mean potential power outages.

Austin Energy said Wednesday that it is preparing crews to respond to potential weather and outages on Thursday. The agency is also reminding customers to report outages online, by texting OUT to 287846 or by calling 512-322-9100.

In addition, Austin Energy provided the following tips for staying safe if you spot downed power lines:

• Consider all wires energized and dangerous. Even de-energized lines may become energized at any time
• Stay at least 35 feet away from downed lines
• Never touch a downed power line or anything in contact with a power line
• Never use any object to move a downed wire

Austin residents can report downed power lines by calling 512-322-9100.

Before the storms hit is the time to get prepared. In addition to downloading the KVUE app for the latest weather updates, you can also sign up for alerts from Warn Central Texas.

Other preparations you can make ahead of the storms:

• Make sure your phone is fully charged
• Make sure you have emergency supplies like a flashlight and bottled water
• Bring in or secure loose items like patio furniture
• With these big wind gusts, stay fire aware

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