Austin Energy preps for winter, urges customer readiness

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austin Energy is prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw our way this winter.

Weather can change fast in Central Texas. With the potential for everything from freezing rain, sleet, or maybe even a few flakes, crews are amping up. In fact, Austin Energy has already cleared some trees near power lines to help prevent scenes like what happened in 2023 and 2021.

There are a few things people can do ahead of time to be prepared for a potential storm-related power outage. Austin Energy suggested customers make their plans right now before it's lights out at home.

The utility offered suggestions like making sure you have flashlights, plenty of batteries, blankets, things to keep the kids occupied, prescriptions you might need, and even emergency contact information.

Austin Energy is also preparing ahead of time to make sure it's ready for whatever happens.

"We are making sure that we are fully staffed up," spokesman Matt Mitchell said. "We are making sure that all our supplies that are necessary at our customer service center, so in the event of an outage, our crews can roll out and restore power as quickly and safely as possible. We are also making sure we are in constant communication with city officials and ERCOT. If we see a major weather event coming our way, there's coordination to the highest extent."

Austin Energy also reminded people to check their contact information on file. It wants to make sure the systems are texting the right people if an outage does occur.

The company also says you should report an outage even if you think it's already been reported.

You can sign-up for alerts on Austin Energy's website.

If you’d like to read more about past weather events in Central Texas, find more in our KXAN Weather Diary.