Insights > Entergy system winter storm update – 1/17/24, 10 a.m.

Entergy system winter storm update – 1/17/24, 10 a.m.

01/17/2024

Following the four-day winter weather event impacting our service area, the majority of our customers have been restored. Our crews continue to safely restore power to the remaining customers impacted this major winter weather system that brought extreme cold, snow and icing across parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. 

Some areas saw temperatures in the teens and single digits overnight and this morning. After temperatures rise for the next couple of days, the National Weather Service expects much of our service area to see another bitter cold snap this weekend, dropping low readings back down into the teens and 20s for many of our customers.  

We want you and your family to remain safe with any precautions. Although temperatures are forecast to rise the next couple of days, many areas will still be under wind chill and freeze advisories for the remainder of the week. With these very cold conditions, and even colder temps returning this weekend, we urge everyone to continue taking extreme care with heaters, fireplaces and generators. 

Resources for customers facing higher bills due to this winter storm.

This week's extremely cold temperatures mean customers' electricity usage is likely going to be much higher than when temperatures are moderate outside. In fact, the bigger the difference between inside and outside temperatures, the more energy is used, which affects your bill. 

For customers encountering higher bills because of the cold snap, Entergy offers a variety of bill management and assistance options. Entergy also provides free or low-cost energy efficiency tips that can go a long way in conserving energy and saving money during the winter season. 

Cooling and heating costs make up about 55% of an average customer’s electric bill. Making minor adjustments and using bill management tools can help you save more on your bill. And those small energy-saving adjustments can help you and your electric bill. 

Customer preparations and storm safety.

Above all, stay safe. A personal plan for you and your family is the best way to stay safe and be storm ready. Please remember that the most dangerous part of a storm is often just after it passes. Hazards are all around us following severe winter weather – from ice above to downed electric lines and equipment or personal generator risks. Stay away from downed power lines and areas of debris. Report downed lines immediately by calling 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243). 

Personal generators are very useful but they also can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution and fire. Generators should be operated in accordance with manufacturers’ standards. Incorrectly connecting a generator to a home or building’s electrical system can create a danger for utility workers and the public.    

Any time you are preparing for a winter weather event, please also check in on you neighbors, especially seniors and disabled. Stay warm and informed during this storm with these tips on extreme cold safety

Stay alert for natural gas leaks. If you smell natural gas, or if you hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and leave the area immediately. Do not operate electrical switches. If possible, turn the outside main gas valve off and call your natural gas provider away from the potential leak. Entergy gas customers should call 1-800-ENTERGY (800-368-3749).

Stay informed and stay in touch

As you make your own plans, we will keep you informed throughout about our response. We send storm and restoration updates to customers who are signed up to receive notifications from us. 

Verify your contact information in your online myEntergy account before severe weather strikes, so you receive our notifications. Download our free app for your smartphone at entergy.com/app. And sign up to receive notifications ahead of a storm: myEntergy.com or by texting REG to 36778. 

You can report outages quickly and easily through our digital options – using either our free mobile app, online at myEntergy.com, or by texting OUT to 36778. 

Visit our Storm Center, a one-stop website for information on winter storm safety, preparation, restoration and regular updates specific to the storm. You can also access the View Outages map from here. 


Jay Vise
Senior Communications Specialist, Utility Communications