As it is safe to do so, SWEPCO damage assessors have been deployed to begin the painstaking role of locating, identifying, and reporting damage to the energy infrastructure. In some areas, this work may not be visible to customers.
SWEPCO’s entire territory
With significant multi-day storms forecast for SWEPCO’s entire three-state service territory
Instead, these assessors may also be patrolling lines (either by deploying on land, air, or by boat) to find the trouble to the system and devise a plan to ensure the right crew, the right equipment, and the right location are accurate to safely and as quickly as possible, restore service to customers. Learn more about the restoration process.
With significant multi-day storms forecast for SWEPCO’s entire three-state service territory, customers are asked to remain weather aware. They appreciate everyone’s patience as they work to rebuild following this significant storm.
Storm response by the numbers
- The latest round of severe weather resulted in increased impacts:
- 15,700 outages – with about 12,000 in SWEPCO’s most southern territory, including Hornbeck and Natchitoches areas, and 3,000 in Shreveport and surrounding areas in Louisiana
- 7,900 new outages, primarily in the Longview, Texas region.
- Crews are also continuing to rebuild infrastructure following a Sunday tornado outbreak that pummeled Northwest Arkansas. Restoration could be slowed by new severe thunderstorms.
- An additional 116 utility professionals from Houston, Texas, are en route to assist with power restoration efforts.
Post-storm safety tips
- Stay as far away as possible from downed wires and anything they may be touching. Call 911 to report any hazards or call SWEPCO immediately at (888) 218-3919.
- Carefully investigate before cleaning up any debris. Tree limbs, leaves, and other objects moved by the wind could hide downed wires.
- Do not attempt to remove tree limbs or debris within 10 feet of a power line.
- If using a generator, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.