SWEPCO Activates Winter Storm Response Protocols in Shreveport

Winter Storm Cora continues to blast artic weather into the Ark-La-Tex. Some areas have seen low temperatures and rainfall, while others have dealt with accumulating snow. Those in-between have been dealt a "wintry mix" and freezing conditions throughout the day. But as nightfall settles in through the region, temperatures are expected to decrease, while precipitation continues.

Freezing conditions are now expected to drive into the Shreveport and Bossier City areas overnight, meaning much of the wetness on roadways has a chance to freeze overnight. Schools through the area have decided to close for Friday.

Southwestern Electric Power Company, or SWEPCO, has been working through Winter Storm Cora to make sure residents are staying connected to the power grid. The company has put winter storm protocols in place at power plants, with line-workers, and utility professionals.

In addition to their full-time staff, SWEPCO has activated over 1,000 tree and other utility professionals from neighboring states to help with possible storm damage. Over 500 on-site and contract crews have already been positioned in the Texarkana and Longview areas.

While SWEPCO is activating their teams and preparing for the weather, it urges customers to do the same.

Remember the following safety guidelines as the storm moves through our area:

• All downed power lines should be considered energized and dangerous. Do not touch anything in contact with the line, such as trees, fences, or puddles of water. Keep children and pets inside during and after the storm. Stay at least ten feet away from any downed power line.
• If you plan to use a portable generator, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Customers on life support systems or other medical equipment that relies on electricity should have a solid backup plan for areas where prolonged outages may occur.

SWEPCO says it will keep customers updated through outage alerts and their website during the storm.