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Strong Wind Forecast Worries Austin Energy


Strong winds are causing some problems for Austin Energy. Crews told KEYE TV last week's wind storm was the worst one, as far as repairs go, in a decade. Now they're worried the trees and limbs put to the test by last week's winds are far more unstable now. So, they're preparing for a busy Tuesday evening after strong winds were predicted to blow through Central Texas.

When it comes to Mother Nature versus power lines, it's not thunderstorms or even ice, Austin Energy told us wind consistently causes the most damage to its system.

"We probably had to go to a thousand locations to make repairs," Carlos Cordova said on Tuesday about last week's major wind storm.

He added they did not find all the potential hazards. In fact, Tuesday afternoon, we found crews working to remove a poll after wind gusts pushed it over, eight days after the last major wind storm. The birds didn't seem to mind, as they perched on the wires while crews worked, but the dozen Austin Energy customers who lost power for hours probably did.

"The wind today continues to have residual effects on the system," Cordova said.

He told us fallen branches account for nearly 60 percent of power line repairs. So, if you see any vulnerable limbs or threats to Austin’s power lines, call Austin Energy directly at (512) 322-9100. Regular tree trimming will also prevent power outages. If you need advice on where or how to trim trees on your property, an Austin Energy representative will come to your house to take a look with you.

The energy company said it's fully staffed for Tuesday night, with 20 additional crews on standby.

By Katherine Stolp