AEP Texas continues to prepare for Tropical Storm Bertha as the storm moves toward the Texas Gulf Coast. More than 1,000 responders across the company’s coastal service territory are monitoring conditions, securing resources and positioning equipment to support a safe, coordinated and efficient response if the storm affects the area later this week.
We know many customers are closely watching this storm and making preparations of their own. AEP Texas is taking proactive steps now, so crews and support teams are ready to respond and restore service as safely and quickly as conditions allow.
On Tuesday, tree-trimming crews across the Corpus Christi District began proactively addressing vegetation near power lines and other electrical facilities in communities including Corpus Christi, Victoria, Bay City, El Campo, Columbus, Garwood and Blessing. This work is intended to reduce potential obstacles and support safer, more efficient restoration efforts if the storm impacts the area.
AEP Texas continues to closely monitor the storm’s path and forecast. While the storm’s final track and intensity remain uncertain, the company is preparing across its coastal service territory for a range of potential impacts. Current preparation efforts include:
- Securing staging areas across the Corpus Christi District as far north as Bay City, along with a gateway receiving center in Corpus Christi for business partners.
- Reviewing planned work and scheduled maintenance outages for possible rescheduling so crews can remain focused on storm preparation and response.
- Securing logistics, including lodging and meals, for additional crews that may arrive later this week.
AEP Texas also reminds customers to keep these storm safety tips in mind:
- Always assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Do not touch anything in contact with a line, including trees, fences or standing water. Stay at least 10 feet away from any downed power line.
- Customers who rely on life-support systems or other electric-powered medical equipment should have a backup plan in place in case of prolonged outages.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using portable generators.
To report a safety hazard, downed power line or tree hazard, visit aeptexas.com/outages or call (866) 223-8508.
Customers can follow AEP Texas on social media for the latest storm preparation and response updates.
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