Current Conditions

Conditions are Normal on Austin Energy’s Electric System

Even with normal conditions, there can still be outages. Austin Energy has crews on standby 24/7 to respond immediately to power outages, and we repair most routine outages within a short period of time.

If you have an outage, here’s how you can report it:

Online — Report an outage online and check the Outage Map for status updates.

By text message — Text OUT to 287846 to register. Austin Energy will text you back with status updates, as available.

If you are not already registered for text alerts, the system may prompt you for your account number or the phone number associated with your account. Learn more about registering for Outage Alerts.

By phone — Call 512-322-9100.

ERCOT Issued a Weather Watch for Jan. 20 through 23

Because of the extreme cold weather across the state, possible higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) — the Texas grid operator — issued a Weather Watch. A Weather Watch is an advance notification of forecast significant weather with higher demand and potential lower reserves. Statewide grid conditions are normal at this time, and ERCOT has enough supply to meet demand. Right now, there is no current expectation of an energy emergency.

Find more information at ercot.com/txans.

Stay Warm and Save with these Conservation Tips

Lower thermostats by a few degrees.
If you have a fireplace, use it to help heat your home instead of turning up the thermostat. When not in use, make sure your fireplace damper is closed to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney.
Keep doors and windows closed to minimize hot air from escaping the home.
Open curtains and shades on the sunny side of your home to let in direct sunlight for warmth. Close shades without direct sunlight to retain warmth.
Switch the setting on ceiling fans to run clockwise at a low speed.
Do not use the oven to heat your home.

Find more conservation info at austinenergy.com/winter.

City of Austin Resources

As part of the City of Austin, we work together to share important information with residents. All Parks and Library facilities can serve as a Warming Center during normal operating hours. Cold Weather Shelters are activated Jan. 18 through Jan. 22. You can find more information on Cold Weather Shelters and Warming Centers at austintexas.gov/alerts. Please monitor local news for up-to-date weather information and visit ReadyCentralTexas.org on how to be prepared for winter weather. 

Now is the Time to Plan Ahead

It's hard to know when you might have a power outage, but the best time to prepare is before you have one. Take a look at our preparedness page for tips to make an outage prep plan that works for you and your household. This will help you get ready and stay ready before a power outage ever happens.

Stay Safe if You Have an Outage

Here’s what you can do to stay safe if you have a power outage.

Avoid downed power lines
Knowing the hazards of downed power lines could save your life or the life of someone else.

Always assume a downed power line is live.

Never touch anything or anyone in contact with a power line.

Stay at least 35 feet away from any downed lines.

Be aware that limbs, fences, hoses, playsets, and other structures near you can become energized by a downed power line.

Call 512-322-9100 to report downed power lines and learn more about how to stay safe when a power line is down.
If safe, check your breakers

There’s a chance your power outage could be caused by a blown fuse or a tripped circuit. If you have checked your breakers and are still without power, or you can’t check your breakers, report the outage online or call 512-322-9100.
Get flashlights or battery-operated lanterns

Battery-operated lights are safer than candles and kerosene lanterns that can cause fires and fumes. Keep a few flashlights on hand, other than your cell phone, to make sure you have light when you need it.
Be safe with portable emergency generators
Portable generators can provide limited electrical power during an outage but they can be dangerous! If you buy or borrow a portable generator, make sure to follow the manufacturer instructions and keep your household safe.

Never fuel or run a portable generator inside your home, place of business, or garage.

Make sure the generator is equipped with a double-throw transfer switch that protects your equipment and prevents feedback on power lines.

Ensure installation meets proper electrical requirements.

Learn more about portable generator safety
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed
Home refrigerators can keep food cold enough for a day or two without power, if the doors are kept closed.

As a rule of thumb, 25 pounds of dry ice will keep a 10-cubic-foot freezer at the proper temperature (32° F) for three to four days.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Read the USDA guidelines for keeping food safe during outages.
Turn off major appliances

When major appliances such as air conditioners and heat pumps are left on, they could overload electric lines once power is restored, causing a second outage. Leave just a few light switches on, including one or two exterior lights. Gas appliances may not work if the power is off because the equipment may require electricity for ignition or valve operation.
Do not attempt to assist emergency and utility crews

Electrical work is dangerous work. Let the pros handle repairs and restoration.

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