Houston Power Outage: What's Happening?

When the lights go out, life grinds to a halt. A power outage in Houston can disrupt everything from traffic signals to your morning coffee routine. Here’s a look at what causes these outages, how to stay informed, and what to do when the electricity flickers and dies.

Understanding Houston Power Outages

Houston's sprawling landscape and aging infrastructure make it susceptible to power outages. Causes range from severe weather events like hurricanes and thunderstorms to equipment failure and even squirrels getting into the wrong places. Knowing the common culprits can help you prepare.

Common Causes:

• Severe Weather: Hurricanes, tropical storms, and even strong thunderstorms can down power lines and damage equipment.
• Aging Infrastructure: Houston's power grid has components that are decades old and prone to failure.
• Equipment Failure: Transformers, substations, and other vital equipment can malfunction, leading to outages.
• Vegetation: Overgrown trees and vegetation can interfere with power lines, especially during windy conditions.
• Animal Interference: Believe it or not, squirrels and other critters frequently cause outages by chewing on wires or entering substations.

Staying Informed During a Blackout

During a power outage, staying informed is critical. Here’s how to get the latest updates:

• Check CenterPoint Energy's Website: CenterPoint Energy is the primary electricity provider in Houston. Their website usually has an outage map and updates.
• Follow Social Media: Monitor CenterPoint Energy's social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook) for real-time information.
• Listen to Local News: Local news channels often provide updates on major power outages and estimated restoration times.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Many providers offer text or email alerts for outages in your area.

What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Preparation is key when dealing with a power outage. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Check Your Breakers: Before reporting an outage, check your circuit breakers to see if that's the issue.
• Report the Outage: Contact CenterPoint Energy to report the outage. The more reports they receive, the better they can pinpoint the problem.
• Unplug Electronics: Prevent damage from power surges by unplugging sensitive electronics.
• Use Flashlights: Avoid using candles, which can be a fire hazard. Opt for flashlights or battery-powered lanterns.
• Conserve Cell Phone Battery: Limit non-essential phone use to conserve battery power.
• Stay Safe: If you use a generator, operate it outdoors and away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Preparing for Future Outages

Being prepared can make all the difference. Consider these steps:

• Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and water.
• Generator: If you rely on medical equipment or need to keep food cold, consider investing in a generator.
• Surge Protectors: Protect your electronics with surge protectors to prevent damage from power surges.
• Tree Trimming: Keep trees and vegetation trimmed away from power lines.

Power outages are an inconvenience, but with the right information and preparation, you can navigate them safely and minimize disruptions. Stay informed, stay safe, and be ready for the next time the lights go out in Houston.