AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Xcel Energy has mobilized all available resources in preparation for what could be a major winter storm in the Texas Panhandle and Eastern New Mexico.
Wes Reeves with Xcel Energy said if we see a significant icing prior to the snow, and if the storm also brings high winds, we likely will see power outages.
Typical problems are icy lines that begin to "gallop" in the wind and lines that are downed when wind and ice damage support structures. Tree limbs also can cause problems when they contact live lines.
Xcel Energy is prepared to meet these challenges by mobilizing all available power crews and lining up suppliers of poles and other equipment to make repairs.
Customers who experience outages should:
Visually inspect their property, from a safe distance, to see if any live lines are down.
Stay away from downed lines
Call 1-800-895-1999 to report downed lines and service interruptions, and provide as much detail as possible if there is visible damage on premises or in the alley.
Make a plan ahead of time to move small children, elderly or ailing friends and relatives to other locations if power service is down for an extended period of time.
Be prepared to call an electrician if the storm causes damage to customer-owned electric facilities.
Xcel officials said your top priority should be the safety and comfort of your family and friends.
