Storm Center > Storm Alert Texas - August 25 Update

Storm Alert Texas - August 25 Update

08/25/2020

Potential Tropical Weather Event

August 25, 2020

TEXAS

Entergy Texas remains ready to respond to any potential impacts in Texas from Tropical Storm Laura. Laura is forecast to make landfall along the Texas/Louisiana border potentially as a major Category 3 hurricane beginning Wednesday night. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding to portions of east Texas and southwest Louisiana — all of which could cause extended power outages.

Customers across Southeast Texas are encouraged to stay storm ready as Laura heads toward Texas given the size and intensity of the storm.  Customers should continue monitoring local weather alerts and follow the guidance being provided by government officials.

Entergy expects to have a storm team of approximately 7,400 to quickly and safely respond to any impacts from Laura in Texas and Louisiana. In addition, crews have moved resources from low-lying and at-risk areas to safer ground and flood protections are in place for equipment in other areas that could see high water. High-water vehicles, drones, helicopters and air boats have also been secured to assist in restoration efforts.

Customers should finalize any preparations for Tropical Storm Laura, as this storm is predicted to be much stronger. Please remain storm ready and take this event seriously. This could be a major system and should be treated as such.

As we prepare for severe weather, we are working to ensure we have the people and resources to respond to outages safely, while practicing social distancing measures needed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Crews are ready to respond safely and efficiently. However, restoration times may be extended if outages are widespread.

For the safety of our crews, please stay away from their work zones. If you need to report a problem with your service or get bill payment help, we’re just a phone call away: 1-800-ENTERGY.

For additional preparation tips and updates visit www.entergy.com/stormcenter

As with any weather event, please be mindful of the following safety tips:

  • Live wires can be deadly. Stay away from downed power lines. Call 1 800 9OUTAGE or1 800 968 8243 to report downed or dangling power lines, poles or other damaged equipment.
  • Do not trim trees or remove debris on or near downed power lines. Only power company crews or their contractors should remove trees or limbs touching power lines.
  • Keep away from the immediate areas where crews are working. There is always the danger of moving equipment and the possibility of construction materials or limbs or overhead wires falling to the ground.
  • If you plan on using a generator for temporary power, get a licensed electrician and disconnect from the utility electric system before hooking up to your home main electric panel. 
  • Do not run a generator in a confined space without adequate ventilation.
  • Avoid using candles or other flammable devices to warm your home. 
  • Check on seniors, who can be particularly susceptible to extreme temperatures. 
  • Try to stay off the roads in affected areas. More traffic in bad weather leads to more accidents, including more injuries and fatalities as well as accidents that can damage electrical poles and other equipment, creating outages and impeding the ability of crews to access and repair damage and slowing restoration.
  • We want to keep you informed and in control so here is the best way to get information about outages in addition to the View Outage application:
    • Download our app for your smartphone at entergy.com/app or visit entergystormcenter.com to stay informed on our restoration progress. Android users who have difficulty accessing the app on their smartphones can get information from the mobile version of our site at entergy.com.
    • Sign up for text alerts by texting REG to 36778 and have your account number and ZIP code handy. The registration pattern is as follows including spaces: REG (account number) (ZIP code). Once registered, text OUT to 36778 to report an outage. You can also report an outage online as a guest.
    • Follow us on Twitter.com/Entergy or Facebook.com/Entergy.
    • Follow updates in your local news media, like radio, television and newspapers.

Texas Editorial Team