SWEPCO’s ArkLaTex storm response, which included hundreds of utility professionals deployed to the hardest hit areas, was temporarily slowed by a concussive wave of storms that fired again on Saturday, downed more trees, damaged SWEPCO’s transmission system, the backbone of its energy delivery system, and created additional outages.
Transmission lines bring high-voltage power from generation operations to substations, where it's "stepped down" to be used by numerous distribution networks.
SWEPCO’s entire three-state service territory
Chances remain for more storms to pop up across SWEPCO’s entire three-state service territory
Despite the setback, SWEPCO remains united in the purpose to get the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible. They appreciate everyone’s patience as they work to rebuild following this significant storm.
With substantial rainfall throughout May, the ground is extremely saturated, which can make even a slight wind cause trees to fall from outside the right-of-ways and potentially create new outages.
Chances remain for more storms to pop up across SWEPCO’s entire three-state service territory. Customers are advised to remain weather aware.
Estimated time of restoration
SWEPCO has provided estimated restoration times for areas impacted by the storm. However, service could be restored sooner. Estimated times of restoration for areas impacted from overnight storms in Panola County, Texas, and southwestern Caddo and DeSoto parishes in Louisiana will be made available once assessors have completed their work.
Customers who signed up for email or text alerts could receive direct updates on the estimated restoration time at their home or business as crews continue working to restore power. To sign up to receive the personalized restoration update, visit swepco website.
Louisiana
Texas
10 p.m. Sunday
- Hornbeck area
- Natchitoches area
4 p.m. Monday
- Mansfield area
10 p.m. Sunday
- Henderson area
- Kilgore area
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.