Here’s What to Do if Your Power Goes Out

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Texas hurricane outlook: 2026 season

Luckily for Texans, this hurricane season should have fewer storms than a typical year, according to experts. Choose Texas Power spoke with Anthony Yanez, chief meteorologist at KPRC 2 News in Houston, to hear his outlook for the 2026 hurricane season and understand why it may be less active.

Yanez pointed to El Niño as the driving factor in this year’s hurricane outlook. El Niño is a global climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that can significantly impact weather patterns. During an El Niño season, strong wind shear often prevents the formation of hurricanes because the wind shear knocks the top off the storm.

“Typically, if you get a moderate El Niño, it’s going to lower the number (of hurricanes),” Yanez explained. “But this one looks like it’s going to be strong, and the effects will be more pronounced. During the heart of the season, I think the wind shear will play a big factor in storms forming in the Atlantic.”

But Yanez warned that a less active season does not mean Texans should let their guard down. In El Niño years, storms that form near land can still be dangerous and affect nearby communities. Reliable electricity is a major concern during hurricanes and summer storms, as they can cause widespread blackouts. Use this guide to prepare for power outages in case a storm forms near you.

Experiencing a power outage?

Texans aren’t strangers to summer storms that knock down power lines or disrupt the electrical grid. A sudden loss of power can be alarming and inconvenient, but there are several ways to protect yourself and safely wait out the storm.

Call your utility company

Your utility company is responsible for restoring power after an outage. Call your utility to report the power outage and receive updates. If you’re not sure which one services your address, check a previous electricity bill.

Here’s how to contact Texas’ five main utility companies: AEP Texas Central, AEP Texas North, CenterPoint Energy, Oncor Electric Delivery, and Texas-New Mexico Power.

AEP Texas Central

• Main service areas: Corpus Christi, McAllen, Harlingen, Victoria, and Laredo
• Report an outage: Online or call 866-223-8508

AEP Texas North

• Main service areas: Abilene and San Angelo
• Report an outage: Online or call 866-223-8508

CenterPoint Energy

• Main service areas: Houston metropolitan area
• Report an outage: Online or call 713-207-2222

Oncor Electric Delivery

• Main service areas: Dallas–Fort Worth, Tyler, Waco, Midland, Odessa, Wichita Falls
• Report an outage: Online, call 888-313-4747, or text “OUT” to 66267

Texas-New Mexico Power

• Main service areas: Texas City, Friendswood, League City, and Lewisville
• Report an outage: Online or call 888-866-7456

Power outage tips

• Keep an emergency kit handy. Prepare your kit ahead of time to avoid scrambling for items at the last minute. Keep your kit in an accessible location and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is located.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. This will help maintain the temperature and preserve the food as long as possible.
• Use generators with caution. To prevent carbon monoxide leaks, generators should be used outside and at least 20 feet away from windows and doors.
• Unplug electronics. Prevent damage to your electronics from a power surge by unplugging household items like computers, TVs, printers, cellphones, gaming systems, and even your microwave.
• Make a plan to care for your family. If you have family members nearby, plan for how you will take care of them if their power goes out.

Best items for your emergency kit

Keep your home stocked with an emergency kit to weather the storm. Here are a few essential items your kit should contain:

• Water. Keep a three-day supply of water in your home. Strive for one gallon of water per person per day. Consider keeping a few extra gallons for other needs or as backup.
• Nonperishable food. Nonperishable food will ensure you have something to eat without power. Stock up on items like canned fruits and vegetables, granola, or shelf-stable meats. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
• Flashlight. Have a few flashlights ready so you can see in the dark. Avoid candles because they increase the risk of fire.
• Extra batteries. Ensure you have enough batteries to power your flashlights for multiple days.
• First aid kit. Keep a first aid kit handy with items such as bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, and hand sanitizer. Include any necessary prescription medications, as well.
• Clothes and bedding. Keep clean clothes, blankets, and pillows on hand to stay comfortable.
• Pet supplies. Include essentials for your pets, such as food, medications, leashes, or carriers.

Power outage FAQs

Where should I plug in a generator?

Keep your generator outside and plugged into an external outlet. Never plug your generator into a wall outlet, as doing so can cause electrocution.

How long is my refrigerated or frozen food good for without power?

An unopened refrigerator can keep food good for about four hours without power, and your freezer can keep food for about 48 hours. To prolong the safety of your food, try to keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

Can I flush the toilet during a power outage?

Yes, you should be able to flush your toilet during a power outage, as the outage shouldn’t affect your plumbing. The only exception is if you have an electric pump that requires power to operate.

How long does it usually take to restore power after an outage?

Depending on the severity of the storm and the cause of the outage, restoring power can take hours or even several days. That’s why it’s important to make sure your emergency kit has enough supplies to last multiple days.