CenterPoint Energy Prepares for Severe Weather Impact from Invest 97L in Southeast Texas

Preparing for Extreme Weather: CenterPoint Energy's Response to Invest 97L

As a storm system named Invest 97L approaches the Southeast Texas region, CenterPoint Energy takes decisive action to ensure the safety of its customers and communities. This weather system is forecasted to bring significant challenges, including intense winds, heavy rainfall, and localized flooding. Understanding the potential impact, CenterPoint Energy has activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and is closely monitoring the evolving weather conditions.

Key Actions Being Taken

CenterPoint Energy is focusing on several critical initiatives in preparation for the potential effects of Invest 97L. According to Jason Fabre, the company’s Vice President of Special Response Distribution Operations and Incident Commander, these actions are essential for a swift response:

1. Activation of the Emergency Operations Center: The EOC plays a crucial role in coordinating the company’s response efforts, ensuring effective communication among teams and with local government officials.

2. Mobilizing Workforce: CenterPoint is preparing its frontline personnel to tackle potential service interruptions. This includes assessing power lines and substations that could be affected by the harsh weather.

3. Inspection and Preparation of Infrastructure: The company’s team is actively inspecting power lines, electric substations, and other critical infrastructure to ensure they are ready to withstand high winds and heavy precipitation. This proactive inspection helps minimize damage and service outages during the storm.

4. Hazardous Vegetation Management: Local teams are dispatched to inspect and clear any vegetation that may pose a risk to power lines, a crucial step in mitigating the impact of strong winds.

5. 24/7 Weather Monitoring: The company's meteorology team is on alert, tracking weather developments and continuously updating response strategies as the storm evolves.

6. Collaboration with Local Officials: CenterPoint Energy is working hand in hand with local emergency management and government officials to ensure preparedness across the region.

7. Customer Communication: To keep customers informed, CenterPoint is proactively reaching out via various channels, including email, text, and social media, to provide safety information and updates on the impending storm.

Joining the Power Alert Service

In light of the severe weather forecast, CenterPoint Energy strongly encourages its customers to sign up for the Power Alert Service®. This service facilitates timely updates regarding power outages, estimated restoration times, and other crucial information directly through phone calls, texts, or emails. Customers can also utilize the company's cloud-based Outage Tracker, available in both English and Spanish, to check the status of outages and restoration efforts specific to their neighborhoods.

Community Preparedness Tips

CenterPoint urges all individuals and families to prioritize safety by preparing in advance for extreme weather. Key recommendations include:

- Developing a Family Emergency Plan: Ensure everyone in the household is familiar with emergency procedures and communication methods.
- Checking Medical Equipment: For those who rely on electricity for medical devices, ensure backup power solutions are available.
- Staying Informed: Follow local weather updates, stay tuned for advisories from CenterPoint Energy, and utilize their resources for guidance.

For continuous updates and preparedness tips, residents can visit CenterPoint Energy's Action Center. Staying prepared and informed is crucial for navigating the unpredictable conditions that Invest 97L may bring.

About CenterPoint Energy

CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is a Texas-based energy delivery company, providing electric transmission, distribution, power generation, and natural gas services to more than 7 million customers in multiple states. With over 150 years of experience and approximately $48.3 billion in assets, CenterPoint is committed to reliable service and customer safety. For more information, please visit CenterPointEnergy.com.