"Those first 48-hours after a storm hits - that's where it matters the most," Lopez told hundreds of attendees during his keynote. "We're not just preparing for hurricanes when they're in the Gulf. We stay ready, all year long."
At this year's Coastal Bend Hurricane Conference, held May 7-8 at the Richard M. Borchard Fairgrounds in Robstown, AEP Texas Communications Director Omar Lopez delivered a clear message: readiness is a year-round mission.
Lopez walked through AEP Texas' storm response plan and explained what it takes to pre-position crews, assess damages, and restor power as quickly and as safely as possible. Coordination, communication, and safety remain top priorities for the company.
After the general session, attendees broke off into workshops. Topics ranged from radiological threats from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, to the science of oil spills, FEMA comliance, and the reality that no two storms are ever the same. Hundreds of emergency professionals from across the region attended, representing local governments, utilities, and response teams.