Entergy Texas storm update – 5/17/24, 5:30 p.m.

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Entergy Texas crews worked around the clock to restore power to more than 85% of customers impacted by Thursday’s severe thunderstorms. As of 5:30 p.m., approximately 6,200 customers are without power, down from the peak of approximately 44,500 customers without power at 8 p.m. Thursday.

Majority of customers are expected to be restored before the end of day Friday. Customers in areas hit hardest by the storm could experience extended outages.

Initial damage assessments show high winds, heavy rain and down trees caused damage to 112 transformers, 27 poles and 30 crossarms. Currently, there are 124 crews in the field working to safely repair equipment as quickly as possible and restore power to our communities. Additional restoration crews from other states and high-water equipment are also being used to expedite restoration efforts.

Crews will continue working around the clock to turn the lights back on, only when and where conditions are safe and secure to do so. Customers are still encouraged to visit the View Outage map for the most up-to-date information.

Entergy Texas encourages customers to keep these safety tips top of mind:

• Stay away from downed power lines and areas of debris. Energized power lines may not be visible among the rubble. Report downed lines immediately to Entergy at 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243), and call your local police station or fire department.
• Return home only when authorities advise and drive only on roadways and bridges that have been declared passable.
• If a power line falls on your vehicle while driving, continue to drive away from the line.
• Don’t walk in flooded areas or standing water. Remember that wet tree limbs can conduct electricity.
• Keep your distance from working crews. Work sites can have any number of hidden dangers for the public, and distracting crews can cause accidents to happen.

Stay informed:

Keeping customers informed before, during and after a storm is important to Entergy Texas. Here are some of the platforms we use to provide updates:

• Download the Entergy App at entergyapp.com. Customers can use the app to report outages or check on the status of power at their home or business.
• Entergy’s View Outages website includes maps that show where outages are located and gives information about restoration progress.
• Register for outage text alerts through myEntergy. Customers should update their notification preferences to participate in text alerts. Customers also can sign up for text messages about storm and restoration efforts by texting REG to 36778.
• The Entergy Storm Center website has storm safety, preparation and restoration information that is updated throughout the day.
• Operation: Storm Ready Guide is a free downloadable guide that helps customers plan and prepare for weather emergencies.
• Social media plays an important role in keeping customers informed. Follow Entergy Texas on Twitter at @EntergyTX and Facebook.com/EntergyTX.